Programming Network Devices with P4 Language

Exploring the role of P4 programming language in defining packet actions, the chapter delves into programming forwarding tables in network devices by writing programs that interact with chip's forwarding engine. It examines the technical aspects of packet manipulation within network switches, discussing the pipeline concept, merchant silicon versus custom-made chips, and the evolution of network device chips. The conversation also touches on challenges in handling high speeds, hardware forwarders for quick decisions, and the limitations of achieving high-speed networking with software devices.