A Comprehensive Performance Evaluation Framework for Load Balancing Products: Metrics, Methodology, and Comparative Analysis

With the rapid evolution of internet technologies, load balancing products have emerged as critical network security devices to ensure efficient and stable operation of network services. However, significant variations in performance, functionality, and stability exist among products from different vendors, making performance evaluation essential for users to select optimal solutions. This study proposes a comprehensive performance evaluation framework for load balancing products, covering both network and application layer metrics, including TCP connection establishment rate, concurrent TCP connections, throughput, application transaction establishment rate, TLS connection establishment rate, and attack blocking rate. By leveraging internationally recognized testing tools (e.g., Spirent CyberFlood) and stress-testing methodologies, we constructed a realistic simulation environment and conducted comparative experiments on load balancing products from ten leading vendors. The results demonstrate that the proposed framework effectively distinguishes performance differences among products, providing a scientific basis for user selection. Furthermore, this study offers insights for advancing load balancing technologies toward higher efficiency, intelligence, and reliability.