Quality of interaction among path computation elements for trust-aware inter-provider cooperation

Path Computation Element (PCE) architecture enables effective traffic engineering in multi-domain networks while limiting the exposure of intra-domain information. However, returned path computations might reveal confidential information if artfully correlated by a malicious PCE. Thus, the selection of domains sequence as the result of PCEs cooperation should depend not only on the capability of providing quality paths but also on factors related to expected revenues or perceived risks. In this scenario, cooperation among PCEs could benefit from a trust model by evaluating the quality of the past interactions. This work introduces the concepts of Quality of Interaction and trust ranking and elaborates a trust management model including effectiveness and security objectives regulating the cooperation among PCEs. Specifically, the proposed trust model aims at stimulating effective interactions among PCEs as a result of a common interest in contributing to successful and profitable path computations while avoiding misuse of path computation services. The simulation results show that our trust model is effective in detecting malicious PCE thereby tuning the amount of information returned in the path computation replies.