Method and device for processing GR of openflow switch, and openflow controller

A device for processing a Graceful Restart (GR) of an OpenFlow switch, comprising:

• a hardware processor, configured to perform programming components stored in a memory, wherein the programming components comprise:
• a determination component, configured to determine the OpenFlow switch being in a GR state;
• and
• a marking component, configured to mark the state of the OpenFlow switch as the GR state, wherein marking the state as the GR state comprises:
• keeping a flow table and external connection of the OpenFlow switch before the GR still valid, and prohibiting the flow table from being modified;
• wherein the determination component comprises:
• a sending element, configured to send, when connecting with the OpenFlow switch, to the OpenFlow switch a message for inquiring whether the OpenFlow switch supports a capability of the GR;
• a second receiving element, configured to receive a GR supporting capability response message fed back by the OpenFlow switch;
• and a second determination element, configured to determine, when disconnecting from the OpenFlow switch, the OpenFlow switch being in the GR state according to the received GR supporting capability response message;
• wherein the programming components further comprise:
• a detection component, configured to detect re-connection with the OpenFlow switch;
• and a clearing component, configured to clear the GR state of the OpenFlow switch.