Load Balancing in Software-Defined Networks using Whale Algorithm

Abstract Computer networks are ubiquitous in modern technology-based infrastructures. As the number of users and data packets in networks continues to grow rapidly, The demand for a comprehensive architecture to manage network processes has escalated significantly. The introduction of software-defined network architecture has offered engineers and researchers in this field an opportunity to tackle network congestion issues. It also enables them to enhance network performance in terms of bandwidth, Quality of Service (QoS), and reduced latency. This article focuses on one aspect of software-defined networks, specifically network load balancing, and proposes a new algorithm inspired by the hunting behavior of whales in the ocean. Nature-inspired algorithms draw inspiration from the behavior of various species in nature, incorporating their mathematical algorithms into different aspects of computer systems. These optimization algorithms, although based on prediction and logical suggestions, have demonstrated superior performance compared to traditional computer algorithms such as sequential (Round-Robin Counting methods) algorithms.