Method and system for evaluating one or more resources for a network function

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a method and a system for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment The method comprises receiving, by a transceiver unit [302] at a network function virtualization platform decision analytics (NPDA) module, a request for performing evaluation of the one or more resources for the network function. The evaluation is based on one or more policies defined for the network function. The method comprises detecting, by a detection unit [304], a threshold breach event associated with the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies. The method comprises performing, by a processing unit [306], a hysteresis-based computation of utilization of the one or more resources, based on detecting threshold breach event. The method comprises triggering, by the transceiver unit [302], a notification for orchestration of one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event.

Description

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR EVALUATING ONE OR MORE RESOURCES FOR A NETWORK FUNCTIONFIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to network management. More particularly, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment.BACKGROUND

[0002] The following description of the related art is intended to provide background information pertaining to the field of the disclosure. This section may include certain aspects of the art that may be related to various features of the present disclosure. However, it should be appreciated that this section is used only to enhance the understanding of the reader with respect to the present disclosure, and not as admissions of the prior art.

[0003] The 5G core networks are based on service-based architecture (SB A) that is centred around network function (NF) services. In the said Service-Based Architecture (SBA), a set of interconnected Network Functions (NFs) deliver the control plane functionality and common data repositories of the 5G network, where each NF is authorized to access services of other NFs. Particularly, each NF can register itself and its supported services to a Network Repository Function (NRF), which is used by other NFs for the discovery of NF instances and their services. Further, the network functions may include, but not limited to, a containerized network function (CNF) and a virtual network function (VNF).

[0004] The CNFs are a set of small, independent, and loosely coupled services such as microservices. These microservices work independently, which may increase speed and flexibility while reducing deployment risk. In 5G communication, cloud-native 5G network offers the fully digitized architecture necessary for deploying new cloud services and taking full advantage of cloud-native 5G features such as edge computing, as well as network slicing and other services. Whereas the VNFs may run in virtual machines (VMs) on common virtualization infrastructure. The VNFs may be created on top of network function virtualization infrastructure (NF VI) which may allocate resources like compute, storage, and networking efficiently among the VNFs. MANO, which stands for Management and Orchestration is a key NFV architectural frameworkthat includes all the essential management modules. It coordinates network resources in NFV framework.

[0005] The platforms core services module of the MANO framework comprises network function virtualization platform decision analytics (NPDA) which helps in deciding the priority of using the network resources. The problem at hand revolves around the complex landscape of NPDA and its pivotal role in resource utilization assessment. NPDA operates on threshold-based policies, which are customizable for each Virtual Network Function (VNF) / VNFC or Containerized Network Function (CNF) / CNFC. These policies encompass more than simple breach criteria, by also incorporating hysteresis-based computations to gauge resource load. This entails not only detecting breaches, but also keeping tabs on the frequency of such breaches. Once the breach count surpasses the hysteresis breach count outlined in the policy, an orchestration notification is triggered. What sets NPDA apart is its ability to conduct real-time evaluations of resource loads, aligning them precisely with the policies defined for each VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC. This distinctive feature stands as a crucial asset in addressing the challenges of resource management and policy enforcement in network environments.

[0006] Thus, there exists an imperative need in the art for a solution to provide real-time evaluation of VNF or VNFC or CNF or CNFC policies pertaining to breach in their thresholds and help with better resource optimization.SUMMARY

[0007] This section is provided to introduce certain aspects of the present disclosure in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify the key features or the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0008] An aspect of the present disclosure may relate to a method for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment. The method comprises receiving, by a transceiver unit at a network function virtualization platform decision analytics (NPDA) module, a request for performing evaluation of the one or more resources for the network function. The evaluation is based on one or more policies defined for the network function. The method comprises detecting, by a detection unit, at the NPDA, a threshold breach event associated with the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies. Furthermore, the method comprises performing, by a processing unit, at the NPDA, a hysteresis-based computation of utilization ofthe one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event. Hereinafter, the method comprises triggering, by the transceiver unit, a notification for orchestration of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event.

[0009] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the network function is one of a virtual network function (VNF) and a containerized network function (CNF).

[0010] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the one or more policies define a threshold breach criteria for each of the one or more resources.

[0011] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the method comprises real-time evaluation of the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies for the network function.

[0012] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one of the threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources is a combination of one or more threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources.

[0013] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the hysteresis-based computation is performed if the threshold breach event is related to the threshold breach criteria which is a combination of the one or more threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources.

[0014] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the one or more policies further define a hysteresis breach count for the one or more resources.

[0015] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the hysteresis-based computation evaluates a count of detection of the threshold breach event and if the count breaches the hysteresis breach count defined in the one or more policies.

[0016] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the notification for orchestration of the one or more resources is triggered if the count breaches hysteresis breach count.

[0017] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the one or more resources comprise a central processing units (CPU), a random memory access (RAM), network bandwidth, one or more key performance indicators (KPIs), a counter value, an alarm value, and combinations thereof.

[0018] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the orchestration of the one or more resources comprises at least one of a healing action, a scale-in action, and a scale-out action.

[0019] Another aspect of the present disclosure may relate to a system for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment. The system comprises a transceiver unit. The transceiver unit is configured to receive, at a network function virtualization platform decision analytics (NPDA) module, a request for performing evaluation of the one or more resources for the network function. The evaluation is based on one or more policies defined for the network function. The system further comprises a detection unit. The detection unit is configured to detect, at the NPDA, a threshold breach event associated with the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies. The system further comprises a processing unit. The processing unit is configured to perform, at the NPDA, a hysteresis-based computation of utilization of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event. Further, the transceiver unit is configured to trigger a notification for orchestration of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event.

[0020] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure may relate to a non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing instructions for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment, the instructions include executable code which, when executed by one or more units of a system cause a transceiver unit to receive, at a network function virtualization platform decision analytics (NPDA) module, a request for performing evaluation of the one or more resources for the network function. The evaluation is based on one or more policies defined for the network function. The instructions when executed by the system further cause a detection unit to detect, at the NPDA, a threshold breach event associated with the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies. The instructions when executed by the system further cause a processing unit to perform, at the NPDA, a hysteresis-based computation of utilization of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event. The instructions when executed by the system further cause the transceiver unit to trigger a notification for orchestration of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event.OBJECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0021] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment disclosed herein satisfies are listed herein below.

[0022] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a solution for evaluation of network resource utilization.

[0023] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a system and method that allows for real time evaluation of VNF or VNFC or CNF or CNFC policy pertaining to breach in their thresholds help with better resource optimization.

[0024] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a dynamic decision making support for resource orchestration.

[0025] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a solution to identify if evaluation of threshold breach event requires a hysteresis-based computation or not.DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein, and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosed methods and systems in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Also, the embodiments shown in the figures are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure, but the possible variants of the method and system according to the disclosure are illustrated herein to highlight the advantages of the disclosure. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that disclosure of such drawings includes disclosure of electrical components or circuitry commonly used to implement such components.

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary block diagram representation of management and orchestration (MANO) architecture / platform, in accordance with exemplary implementation of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a computing device upon which the features of the present disclosure may be implemented in accordance with exemplary implementation of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a system for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment, in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 4 illustrates a method flow diagram for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment, in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG.5 illustrates an implementation of the architecture of NPDA for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment, in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 6 an exemplary implementation of the method flow

[0600] for performing the NPDA operations via the interfaces for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment, in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure.

[0033] The foregoing shall be more apparent from the following more detailed description of the disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, various specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. Several features described hereafter may each be used independently of one another or with any combination of other features. An individual feature may not address any of the problems discussed above or might address only some of the problems discussed above.

[0035] The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth.

[0036] Specific details are given in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, circuits, systems, processes, and other components may be shown as components in block diagram form in order not to obscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail.

[0037] Also, it is noted that individual embodiments may be described as a process which is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations may be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process is terminated when its operations are completed but could have additional steps not included in a figure.

[0038] The word “exemplary” and / or “demonstrative” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” and / or “demonstrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes,” “has,” “contains,” and other similar words are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive — in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as an open transition word — without precluding any additional or other elements.

[0039] As used herein, a “processing unit” or “processor” or “operating processor” includes one or more processors, wherein processor refers to any logic circuitry for processing instructions. A processor may be a general-purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in association with a (Digital Signal Processing) DSP core, a controller, a microcontroller, Application Specific Integrated Circuits, Field Programmable Gate Array circuits, any other type of integrated circuits, etc. The processor may perform signal coding data processing, input / output processing, and / or any other functionality that enables the working of the system according to the present disclosure. More specifically, the processor or processing unit is a hardware processor.

[0040] As used herein, “a user equipment”, “a user device”, “a smart-user-device”, “a smartdevice”, “an electronic device”, “a mobile device”, “a handheld device”, “a wirelesscommunication device”, “a mobile communication device”, “a communication device” may be any electrical, electronic and / or computing device or equipment, capable of implementing the features of the present disclosure. The user equipment / device may include, but is not limited to, a mobile phone, smart phone, laptop, a general-purpose computer, desktop, personal digital assistant, tablet computer, wearable device or any other computing device which is capable of implementing the features of the present disclosure. Also, the user device may contain at least one input means configured to receive an input from at least one of a transceiver unit, a processing unit, a storage unit, a detection unit and any other such unit(s) which are required to implement the features of the present disclosure.

[0041] As used herein, “storage unit” or “memory unit” refers to a machine or computer-readable medium including any mechanism for storing information in a form readable by a computer or similar machine. For example, a computer-readable medium includes read-only memory (“ROM”), random access memory (“RAM”), magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices or other types of machine-accessible storage media. The storage unit stores at least the data that may be required by one or more units of the system to perform their respective functions.

[0042] As used herein “interface” or “user interface” refers to a shared boundary across which two or more separate components of a system exchange information or data. The interface may also be referred to a set of rules or protocols that define communication or interaction of one or more modules or one or more units with each other, which also includes the methods, functions, or procedures that may be called.

[0043] All modules, units, components used herein, unless explicitly excluded herein, may be software modules or hardware processors, the processors being a general-purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in association with a DSP core, a controller, a microcontroller, Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASIC), Field Programmable Gate Array circuits (FPGA), any other type of integrated circuits, etc.

[0044] As used herein the transceiver unit include at least one receiver and at least one transmitter configured respectively for receiving and transmitting data, signals, information or a combination thereof between units / components within the system and / or connected with the system.

[0045] As discussed in the background section, the current known solutions have several shortcomings. The present disclosure aims to overcome the above-mentioned and other existing problems in this field of technology by providing method and system of evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment.

[0046] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary block diagram representation of a management and orchestration (MANO) architecture / platform

[0100] , in accordance with exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. The MANO architecture

[0100] is developed for managing telecom cloud infrastructure automatically, managing design or deployment design, managing instantiation of network node(s) / service(s) etc. The MANO architecture

[0100] deploys the network node(s) in the form of Virtual Network Function (VNF) and Cloud-native / Container Network Function (CNF). The system may comprise one or more components of the MANO architecture

[0100] , The MANO architecture

[0100] is used to auto-instantiate the VNFs into the corresponding environment of the present disclosure so that it could help in onboarding other vendor(s) CNFs and VNFs to the platform.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 1, the MANO architecture

[0100] comprises a user interface layer, a network function virtualization (NFV) and software defined network (SDN) design function module

[0104] , a platforms foundation services module

[0106] , a platform core services module

[0108] and a platform resource adapters and utilities module

[0112] , All the components are assumed to be connected to each other in a manner as obvious to the person skilled in the art for implementing features of the present disclosure.

[0048] The NFV and SDN (NFVSDN) design function module

[0104] comprises a VNF lifecycle manager (compute)

[1042] , a VNF catalogue

[1044] , a network services catalogue

[1046] , a network slicing and service chaining manager

[1048] , a physical and virtual resource manager

[1050] and a CNF lifecycle manager

[1052] , The VNF lifecycle manager (compute)

[1042] is responsible for deciding on which server of the communication network, the microservice will be instantiated. The VNF lifecycle manager (compute)

[1042] may manage the overall flow of incoming / outgoing requests during interaction with the user. The VNF lifecycle manager (compute)

[1042] is responsible for determining which sequence to be followed for executing the process. For e.g. in an AMF network function of the communication network (such as a 5G network), sequence for execution of processes Pl and P2 etc. The VNF catalogue

[1044] stores the metadata of all the VNFs (also CNFs in some cases). The network services catalogue

[1046] stores the information about the services that need to be run. The network slicing and servicechaining manager

[1048] manages the slicing (an ordered and connected sequence of network service / network functions (NFs)) that must be applied to a specific networked data packet. The physical and virtual resource manager

[1050] stores the logical and physical inventory of the VNFs. Just like the VNF lifecycle manager (compute)

[1042] , the CNF lifecycle manager

[1052] is used for the CNFs lifecycle management.

[0049] The platforms foundation services module

[0106] comprises a microservices elastic load balancer

[1062] , an identify & access manager

[1064] , a command line interface (CLI)

[1066] , a central logging manager

[1068] , and an event routing manager

[1070] , The microservices elastic load balancer

[1062] is used for maintaining the load balancing of the request for the services. The identify & access manager

[1064] is used for logging purposes. The command line interface (CLI)

[1066] is used to provide commands to execute certain processes which require changes during the run time. The central logging manager

[1068] is responsible for keeping the logs of every service. These logs are generated by the MANO platform

[0100] , These logs are used for debugging purposes. The event routing manager

[1070] is responsible for routing the events i.e., the application programming interface (API) hits to the corresponding services.

[0050] The platforms core services module

[0108] comprises NFV infrastructure monitoring manager

[1082] , an assure manager

[1084] , a performance manager

[1086] , a policy execution engine

[1088] , a capacity monitoring manager

[1090] , a release management (mgmt.) repository

[1092] , a configuration manager & GCT

[1094] , an NFV platform decision analytics

[1096] , a platform NoSQL DB

[1098] ; a platform schedulers and cron jobs

[1100] , a VNF backup & upgrade manager

[1102] , a micro service auditor

[1104] , and a platform operations, administration and maintenance manager

[1106] , The NFV infrastructure monitoring manager

[1082] monitors the infrastructure part of the NFs. For e.g., any metrics such as CPU utilization by the VNF. The assure manager

[1084] is responsible for supervising the alarms the vendor is generating. The performance manager

[1086] is responsible for managing the performance counters. The policy execution engine (PEEGN)

[1088] is responsible for all the managing the policies. The capacity monitoring manager (CMM)

[1090] is responsible for sending the request to the PEEGN

[1088] , The release management (mgmt.) repository (RMR)

[1092] is responsible for managing the releases and the images of all the vendor network node. The configuration manager & (GCT)

[1094] manages the configuration and GCT of all the vendors. The NFV platform decision analytics (NPDA)

[1096] helps in deciding the priority of using the network resources. It is further noted that the policy execution engine (PEEGN)

[1088] , the configuration manager & GCT

[1094] and the NPDA

[1096] work together. The platform NoSQL DB

[1098] is a database for storing allthe inventory (both physical and logical) as well as the metadata of the VNFs and CNF. The platform schedulers and cron jobs

[1100] schedules the task such as but not limited to triggering of an event, traverse the network graph etc. The VNF backup & upgrade manager

[1102] takes backup of the images, binaries of the VNFs and the CNFs and produces that backup on demand in case of server failure. The micro service auditor

[1104] audits the microservices. For e.g., in a hypothetical case, instances not being instantiated by the MANO architecture

[0100] using the network resources then the micro service auditor

[1104] audits and informs the same so that resources can be released for services running in the MANO architecture

[0100] , thereby assuring the services only run on the MANO platform

[0100] , The platform operations, administration and maintenance manager

[1106] is used for newer instances that are spawning.

[0051] The platform resource adapters and utilities module

[0112] further comprises a platform external API adaptor and gateway

[1122] ; a generic decoder and indexer (XML, CSV, JSON)

[1124] ; a docker swarm adaptor

[1126] ; an OpenStack API adapter

[1128] ; and a NFV gateway

[1130] , The platform external API adaptor and gateway

[1122] is responsible for handling the external services (to the MANO platform

[0100] ) that requires the network resources. The generic decoder and indexer (XML, CSV, JSON)

[1124] gets directly the data of the vendor system in the XML, CSV, JSON format. The docker swarm adaptor

[1126] is the interface provided between the telecom cloud and the MANO architecture

[0100] for communication. The OpenStack API adapter

[1128] is used to connect with virtual machines (VMs). The NFV gateway

[1130] is responsible for providing the path to each service going to / incoming from the MANO architecture

[0100] ,

[0052] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a computing device

[0200] upon which the features of the present disclosure may be implemented in accordance with exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In an implementation, the computing device

[0200] may also implement a method for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment utilising the system. In another implementation, the computing device

[0200] itself implements the method for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment, using one or more units configured within the computing device

[0200] , wherein said one or more units are capable of implementing the features as disclosed in the present disclosure.

[0053] The computing device

[0200] may include a bus

[0202] or other communication mechanism for communicating information, and a hardware processor

[0204] coupled with bus

[0202] for processing information. The hardware processor

[0204] may be, for example, a general-purposemicroprocessor. The computing device

[0200] may also include a main memory

[0206] , such as a random-access memory (RAM), or other dynamic storage device, coupled to the bus

[0202] for storing information and instructions to be executed by the processor

[0204] , The main memory

[0206] also may be used for storing temporary variables or other intermediate information during execution of the instructions to be executed by the processor

[0204] , Such instructions, when stored in non-transitory storage media accessible to the processor

[0204] , render the computing device

[0200] into a special-purpose machine that is customized to perform the operations specified in the instructions. The computing device

[0200] further includes a read only memory (ROM)

[0208] or other static storage device coupled to the bus

[0202] for storing static information and instructions for the processor

[0204] ,

[0054] A storage device

[0210] , such as a magnetic disk, optical disk, or solid-state drive is provided and coupled to the bus

[0202] for storing information and instructions. The computing device

[0200] may be coupled via the bus

[0202] to a display

[0212] , such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), Liquid crystal Display (LCD), Light Emitting Diode (LED) display, Organic LED (OLED) display, etc. for displaying information to a computer user. An input device

[0214] , including alphanumeric and other keys, touch screen input means, etc. may be coupled to the bus

[0202] for communicating information and command selections to the processor

[0204] , Another type of user input device may be a cursor controller

[0216] , such as a mouse, a trackball, or cursor direction keys, for communicating direction information and command selections to the processor

[0204] , and for controlling cursor movement on the display

[0212] , This input device typically has two degrees of freedom in two axes, a first axis (e.g., x) and a second axis (e.g., y), that allow the device to specify positions in a plane.

[0055] The computing device

[0200] may implement the techniques described herein using customized hard-wired logic, one or more ASICs or FPGAs, firmware and / or program logic which in combination with the computing device

[0200] causes or programs the computing device

[0200] to be a special-purpose machine. According to one implementation, the techniques herein are performed by the computing device

[0200] in response to the processor

[0204] executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions contained in the main memory

[0206] , Such instructions may be read into the main memory

[0206] from another storage medium, such as the storage device

[0210] , Execution of the sequences of instructions contained in the main memory

[0206] causes the processor

[0204] to perform the process steps described herein. In alternative implementations of the present disclosure, hard-wired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions.

[0056] The computing device

[0200] also may include a communication interface

[0218] coupled to the bus

[0202] , The communication interface

[0218] provides a two-way data communication coupling to a network link

[0220] that is connected to a local network

[0222] , For example, the communication interface

[0218] may be an integrated services digital network (ISDN) card, cable modem, satellite modem, or a modem to provide a data communication connection to a corresponding type of telephone line. As another example, the communication interface

[0218] may be a local area network (LAN) card to provide a data communication connection to a compatible LAN. Wireless links may also be implemented. In any such implementation, the communication interface

[0218] sends and receives electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals that carry digital data streams representing various types of information.

[0057] The computing device

[0200] can send messages and receive data, including program code, through the network(s), the network link

[0220] and the communication interface

[0218] , In the Internet example, a server

[0230] might transmit a requested code for an application program through the Internet

[0228] , the ISP

[0226] , the local network

[0222] , the host

[0224] and the communication interface

[0218] , The received code may be executed by the processor

[0204] as it is received, and / or stored in the storage device

[0210] , or other non-volatile storage for later execution.

[0058] The present disclosure is implemented by a system

[0300] (as shown in FIG. 3). In an implementation, the system

[0300] may include the computing device

[0200] (as shown in FIG. 2). It is further noted that the computing device

[0200] is able to perform the steps of a method

[0400] (as shown in FIG. 4).

[0059] Referring to FIG. 3, an exemplary block diagram of a system

[0300] for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment is shown, in accordance with the exemplary implementations of the present disclosure. The system

[0300] comprises at least one transceiver unit

[0302] , at least one detection unit

[0304] and at least one processing unit

[0306] , Also, all of the components / units of the system

[0300] are assumed to be connected to each other unless otherwise indicated below. As shown in the figures all units shown within the system should also be assumed to be connected to each other. Also, in FIG. 3 only a few units are shown, however, the system

[0300] may comprise multiple such units or the system

[0300] may comprise any such numbers of said units, as required to implement the features of the present disclosure. Further, in an implementation, the system

[0300] may reside in a server or a network entity. In yet another implementation, the system

[0300] may reside partly in the server / network entity.

[0060] The system

[0300] is configured for evaluating one or more resources for a network function (NF) in a network environment, with the help of the interconnection between the components / units of the system

[0300] , In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the network function is one of a virtual network function (VNF) and a containerized network function (CNF). As used herein, the VNF may refer to software applications that deliver network functions such as directory services, routers, firewalls, load balancers, etc. The CNF may be a component or a software service that fulfils certain network functionalities while adhering to cloud-native design principles without requiring any hardware or appliance to house it.

[0061] Collecting accurate network function (NF) resource utilization information is important for performing a variety of operational tasks. For example, when provisioning resources, resource utilization information from the network function is used as the basis for sizing of virtual machines which host the network function. For overload operational tasks, virtual machine resource utilization information is used to select virtual machines which are to be migrated to another server, as well as the target servers which are to receive the virtual machines.

[0062] The transceiver unit

[0302] is configured to receive, at a network function virtualization platform decision analytics (NPDA) module, a request for performing evaluation of the one or more resources for the network function. In one example, the system

[0300] may be implemented as NPDA

[1096] aa shown in FIG. 1. In such cases, the NPDA module may be responsible for performing the functions of the NPDA

[1096] , In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the request for performing evaluation of the one or more resources for the network function is received, by the transceiver unit, at the NPDA module, from at least one of a command line interface (CLI), and a user interface (UI). The evaluation is based on one or more policies defined for the network function. The NPDA module implements an intelligent policy mechanism that helps prevent network outages by proactively analyzing network defects by evaluating utilization of the one or more resources and triggering healing processes in real-time. NPDA module evaluates the network resources utilization based on the pre-defined policies and received actual network resource usage. Policies allow network operators to monitor a set of pre-defined key performance indicators (KPIs) and create rules to define when the applications running on the network function indicate an overload, underload, or a healing condition. The policy also allows network operators to define an automatic triggered action to be performed when any of these conditions is met. This ensures that the VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC instances are either restarted or migrated to a healthy host. Thus, optimizing resource utilization and network performance.

[0063] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the system

[0300] is configured to perform real-time evaluation of the utilization of the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies for the network function. The NPDA module provides an intelligent, dynamic, real-time policy mechanism. This mechanism, combined with NFVSDN

[0104] module’s (as shown and described in FIG. 1) network defect detection and proactive notification through PVIM microservice, allows for swift and informed action to address potential network issues before they escalate into outages. NFVSDN

[0104] module with its components plays a crucial role in analyzing network defects, enabling quick responses and maintaining a healthy network environment.

[0064] The system

[0300] helps prevent network outages by proactively analyzing network defects and triggering healing processes in real-time. The real-time evaluation of the utilization of the one or more resources ensures quick adaptability to changing network conditions, immediate response, and efficient healing processes, ultimately leading to improved network reliability, and minimized downtime.

[0065] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the one or more resources comprise at least a central processing units (CPU), a random memory access (RAM), network bandwidth, one or more key performance indicators (KPIs), a counter value, an alarm value, and combinations thereof. These resources will be described in the following paragraphs.

[0066] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the one or more policies define a threshold breach criteria for each of the one or more resources. The policies set by network operator for the NF monitor a set of pre-defined KPIs and create rules to define when the applications running on the NF indicate an overload, underload, or healing condition based on the utilization of the one or more resources. These rules define a criteria based on which the overload, underload or the healing condition is detected. These criteria further define a threshold, where the values of the threshold when breached define the overload, underload and healing conditions. The breach occurs in both the conditions when the value is below the threshold and also above the threshold. This refers to defining threshold breach criteria for the each of the resources utilized by the NF. Network operators can use a template available at the UI / CLI of the NPDA module to define a list of conditions and rules and specify an action to be automatically performed when those conditions are met. The template can be used to create a VNF / CNF policy comprising the rules defining the threshold breach criteria. The network operators can modify the defined conditions / rules andactions through the UI / CLI at the NPDA module. The policies are created for VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC through the UI / CLI interfaces and then the policies are stored in a database by NPDA.

[0067] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one of the threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources is a combination of one or more threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources. The threshold breach criteria defined for a resource can be a combination of threshold breach criteria for two or more other resources. For example, a threshold breach criteria defined for network bandwidth can be a combination of threshold breach criteria defined for CPU and RAM. In an implementation, the combination can be formed through an ‘AND’ or an ‘OR’ operator.

[0068] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the one or more policies further define a hysteresis breach count for the one or more resources. The hysteresis breach count is pre-defined in the one or more policies. The hysteresis count defines for how many number of times the threshold breach event has occurred for a combination of threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources. For example, how many times the system

[0300] has detected the threshold breach event for network bandwidth. If the hysteresis count reaches the pre-defined hysteresis breach count, then the system

[0300] has to trigger an action.

[0069] The detection unit

[0304] is configured to detect, at the NPDA module, a threshold breach event associated with the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies. The NPDA module is configured to evaluate the VNF / VNFC and the CNF / CNFC resource load based on the resource load information received from a Capacity Monitoring Platform (CMP) microservice and simultaneously an alarm notification from a Physical and Virtual Inventory Manager (PVIM) microservice, which are routed through an Event Routing Manager (EVM) microservice to the NPDA module. It is to be noted that the CMP, PVIM and ERM microservices are integrated with the MANO architecture as described with reference to FIG. l. The detection unit

[0304] detects the resource load information and alarm notification received from the EVM. As described earlier, each policy defines a threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources. When the one or more resources, breach the threshold breach criteria, based on their utilization, this is termed as the threshold breach event, which is received by the detection unit

[0304] from the EVM.

[0070] Further, based on detecting the threshold breach event, the processing unit

[0306] is configured to perform, at the NPDA, a hysteresis-based computation of utilization of the one or more resources. In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the hysteresis-based computationis performed if the threshold breach event is related to the threshold breach criteria which is a combination of one or more other threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources. To evaluate the threshold breach event associated with the one or more resources, and take necessary actions, the system

[0300] is configured to further evaluate if the threshold breach criteria associated with the threshold breach event is a combination of threshold breach criteria of the one or more resources. For example, a threshold breach criteria for network bandwidth may be a combination of threshold breach criteria for CPU and RAM utilization. If the threshold breach event is associated with a combination of threshold breach criteria, then the processing unit

[0306] performs the hysteresis-based computation of the resources load. The processing unit

[0306] at the NPDA module fetches the policy defined against the VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC from the database and performs hysteresis evaluation based on the received resource utilization details. The processing unit

[0306] at the NPDA module also fetches the policies defined against the provided VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC and the alarm history from the database for the component and then it performs hysteresis evaluation over the same.

[0071] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the hysteresis-based computation evaluates a count of detection of the threshold breach event and if the count breaches the hysteresis breach count defined in the one or more policies. The count of threshold breach events as detected by the detection unit

[0304] is compared with the hysteresis breach count as pre-defined in the one or more policies. If the count of threshold breach events equals the pre-defined hysteresis breach count, then the system

[0300] is configured to take necessary actions.

[0072] In an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure, consider a scenario where a policy name: “Policy X” has been designed through UI / CLI of the NPDA module for a particular CNF say “CNF 1”.

[0073] When a resource threshold breach event has been sent by CMP micro service for the CNF named CNF1, where the threshold breach event is related to the CPU usage as 90 %. As soon the threshold breach event is received, NPDA module fetches the respective policy details for CNF1 from the database. Once the policy is fetched, say Policy X as described in the above table, NPDA module starts comparing the received CPU usage i.e. 90% with the value mentioned in Policy X and since there is a breach but the trigger relation is not met, i.e. RAM or ALARM event has not exceeded, therefore, the threshold-based policy evaluation yields to false. Here, the trigger relation defines the threshold breach criteria which is a combination of threshold breach criteria for RAM and CPU. This combination requires hysteresis-based computation as described above.

[0074] Similarly, after some time, if the CMP sends an alarm DISK SIZE INCREASED continuously for 20 times to NPDA module with in 1 minute, then NPDA module compares this with the Policy X and evaluates the result as true because hysteresis count has breached more than 10 times in 10 minutes interval. The evaluated result is then sent to the PEEGN micro service

[1088] with the action to perform scale in with the new CNF named as CNF2. The PEEGN microservice

[1088] as described in FIG. 1 illustrating the MANO framework, is responsible for actual resource scaling through a scaling policy.

[0075] Further, based on detecting the threshold breach event, the transceiver unit

[0302] is further configured to trigger, a notification for orchestration of the one or more resources. The notification for orchestration of the one or more resources is triggered if the count of threshold breach event breaches the hysteresis breach count. The notification for orchestration of the one or more resources may also be triggered even if the threshold breach event is not related to the combination of the threshold breach criteria, and the threshold breach criteria in the one or more policies defines an action to be taken.

[0076] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the orchestration of the one or more resources comprises at least one of a healing action, a scale-in action, and a scale-out action. In general, healing action refers to automated processes that detect and correct issues within a system. For example, if a server instance becomes unresponsive, a healing action might automatically restart the server, replace it with a new instance or reroute traffic to healthy instances. Further, the scale-in action includes reducing number of resources, or instances in a system. In addition, thescale-out action refers to a process of adding more resources or instances to handle increased demand. For example, if traffic to a network function spikes, scaling out would involve adding more instances to distribute load. In an exemplary aspect, the PEEGN

[1088] of the MANO framework, is responsible for actual resource scaling through a scaling policy.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 4, an exemplary method flow diagram

[0400] for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment, in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure is shown. In an implementation the method

[0400] is performed by the system

[0300] , Further, in an implementation, the system

[0300] may be present in a server device to implement the features of the present disclosure. Also, as shown in FIG. 4, the method

[0400] starts at step

[0402] ,

[0078] The one or more resources comprise a central processing units (CPU), a random memory access (RAM), network bandwidth, one or more key performance indicators (KPIs), a counter value, an alarm value, and combinations thereof. The network function is one of a virtual network function (VNF) and a containerized network function (CNF). An alarm notifies network operators once a resource or a service reaches a pre-defined threshold like errors or usage. The alarm is triggered based on an alarm value which is pre-defined in the policies. The counters encapsulate crucial performance data of various resources. The counter value defines metrics such as connection speed, latency, data transfer rates, and many others. The counter value is processed and aggregated as required, forming a comprehensive overview of network performance. The system

[0300] uses the counters, which are collected and processed from various resources. The counter values are processed to determine one or more KPIs.

[0079] At step

[0404] , the method

[0400] comprises receiving, by a transceiver unit

[0302] at a network function virtualization platform decision analytics (NPDA) module, a request for performing evaluation of the one or more resources for the network function. In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the request for performing evaluation of the one or more resources for the network function is received, by the transceiver unit, at the NPDA module, from at least one of a command line interface (CLI), and a user interface (UI). The evaluation is based on one or more policies defined for the network function. The NPDA module implements an intelligent policy mechanism that helps prevent network outages by proactively analyzing network defects by evaluating utilization of the one or more resources and triggering healing processes in realtime. Policies allow network operators to monitor a set of pre-defined key performance indicators (KPIs) and create rules to define when the applications running on the network function indicatesan overload, underload, or a healing condition. The policy also allows network operators to define an automatic triggered action to be performed when any of these conditions is met. This ensures that the VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC instances are either restarted or migrated to a healthy host. Thus, optimizing resource utilization and network performance.

[0080] The one or more policies define a threshold breach criteria for each of the one or more resources. The policies set by network operator for the NF monitor a set of pre-defined KPIs and create rules to define when the applications running on the NF indicate an overload, underload, or healing condition based on the utilization of the one or more resources. These rules define a criteria based on which the overload, underload or the healing condition is detected. These criteria further define a threshold, where the values of the threshold when breached define the overload, underload and healing conditions. The breach occurs in both the conditions when the value is below the threshold and also above the threshold. This refers to defining threshold breach criteria for the each of the resources utilized by the NF. Network operators can use a template available at the UI / CLI of the NPDA module to define a list of conditions and rules and specify an action to be automatically performed when those conditions are met. The template can be used to create a VNF / CNF policy comprising the rules defining the threshold breach criteria. The network operators can modify the defined conditions / rules and actions through the UI / CLI at the NPDA module. The policies are created for VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC through the UI / CLI interfaces and then the policies are stored in a database by NPDA.

[0081] The at least one of the threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources is a combination of one or more threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources. In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one of the threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources is a combination of one or more threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources. The threshold breach criteria defined for a resource can be a combination of threshold breach criteria for two or more other resources. For example, a threshold breach criteria defined for network bandwidth can be a combination of threshold breach criteria defined for CPU and RAM. The combination can be formed through and or an OR operator.

[0082] The method

[0400] comprises real-time evaluation of the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies for the network function.

[0083] The one or more policies further define a hysteresis breach count for the one or more resources. The hysteresis breach count is pre-defined in the one or more policies. The hysteresiscount defines for how many number of times the threshold breach event has occurred for a combination of threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources. For example, how many times the system

[0300] has detected the threshold breach event for network bandwidth. If the hysteresis count reaches the pre-defined hysteresis breach count, then the system

[0300] has to trigger an action.

[0084] At step

[0406] , the method

[0400] comprises detecting, by a detection unit

[0304] , at the NPDA, a threshold breach event associated with the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies.

[0085] Next at step

[0408] , the method

[0400] comprises performing, by a processing unit

[0306] , at the NPDA, a hysteresis-based computation of utilization of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event. The hysteresis-based computation is performed if the threshold breach event is related to the threshold breach criteria which is a combination of one or more other threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources. To evaluate the threshold breach event associated with the one or more resources, and take necessary actions, the system

[0300] is configured to further evaluate if the threshold breach criteria associated with the threshold breach event is a combination of threshold breach criteria of the one or more resources. For example, a threshold breach criteria for network bandwidth may be a combination of threshold breach criteria for CPU and RAM utilization. If the threshold breach event is associated with a combination of threshold breach criteria, then the processing unit

[0302] performs the hysteresis-based computation of the resources load. The processing unit

[0302] at the NPDA module fetches the policy defined against the VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC from the database and performs hysteresis evaluation based on the received resource utilization details.

[0086] Further, at step

[0410] , the method

[0400] comprises triggering, by the transceiver unit

[0302] , a notification for orchestration of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event. The notification for orchestration of the one or more resources is triggered if the count breaches hysteresis breach count. The orchestration of the one or more resources comprises at least one of a healing action, a scale-in action, and a scale-out action.

[0087] The method

[0400] terminates at step

[0412] ,

[0088] Referring to FIG.5, an implementation of the architecture of NPDA

[0500] for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment, in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure is shown.

[0089] At Step [1], a network operator defined threshold-based policies for a VNF / VNFC or a CNF / CNFC using the user interface [UI]

[0502] , It is to be noted that the same action can also be performed using the command line interface (CLI)

[0506] , The threshold-based policies are for one or more resources used by the VNF / CNF. The CRUD (create, read, update, delete) operations can be performed on the policies from either the UI

[0502] or the CLI

[0506] , The NPDA

[0503] provides dynamic update / enrichment of the policies defined for a VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC through the UI and those updated policy rules can then be applied for computation of the resources load. Further, the UI

[0502] or the CLI

[0506] are also designed to receive requests for evaluation of the one or more resources for the VNF / CNF. The evaluation will be based on the threshold-based policies defined for the VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC and stored in the NoSQL database

[1098] by the NPDA

[1096] ,

[0090] At Step [2], the request for evaluation for the one or more resources, is forwarded to the NPDA

[1096] via a Load Balancer (LB)

[0504] ,

[0091] At Step [3], for evaluation of the one or more resources, the NPDA

[1096] will fetch real time / historical alarms, counters and infra-metric meta-data for the VNF / CNF. For fetching meta data parameter name and parameter type are one of the parameters.

[0092] Further, the NPDA

[1096] is configured to evaluate the VNF / VNFC and the CNF / CNFC resource load based on the resource load information received from the Capacity Monitoring Platform (CMP) microservice

[0510] at Step [4] and simultaneously an alarm notification from the PVIM

[0514] which are routed through the Event Routing Manager

[0512] at Step [5] to the NPDA

[1096] , The evaluation is performed for threshold-based and hysteresis-based breach events.

[0093] In an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure, consider a scenario where a policy name: “Policy X” has been designed through UI / CLI of the NPDA module for a particular CNF say “CNF 1”.

[0094] When a resource threshold breach event has been sent by CMP micro service for the CNF named CNF1, where the threshold breach event is related to the CPU usage as 90 %. As soon the threshold breach event is received, NPDA module fetches the respective policy details for CNF1 from the database. Once the policy is fetched, say Policy X as described in the above table, NPDA module starts comparing the received CPU usage i.e. 90% with the value mentioned in Policy X and since there is a breach but the trigger relation is not met, i.e. RAM or ALARM event has not exceeded, therefore, the threshold-based policy evaluation yields to false. Here, the trigger relation defines the threshold event criteria which is a combination of threshold breach criteria for RAM and CPU. This combination requires hysteresis-based computation as described above.

[0095] Similarly, after some time, if the CMP sends an alarm DISK SIZE INCREASED continuously for 20 times to NPDA module with in 1 minute, then NPDA module compares this with the Policy X and evaluates the result as true because hysteresis count has breached more than 10 times in 10 minutes interval. The evaluated result is then sent to the PEEGN micro service

[1088] with the action to perform scale in with the new CNF named as CNF2. The PEEGN microservice

[1088] as described in FIG. 1 illustrating the MANO framework, is responsible for actual resource scaling through a scaling policy.

[0096] Furthermore, the NPDA

[1096] is configured to perform at least one of a scale-in operation, scale-out operation and healing operations via the micro service Policy Execution Engine (PEEGN)

[1088] in an event the hysteresis-based evaluation of the defined policy is true. In general, healing action refers to automated processes that detect and correct issues within a system. For example, if a server instance becomes unresponsive, a healing action might automatically restart the server, replace it with a new instance or reroute traffic to healthy instances. Further, the scale-in action includes reducing number of resources, or instances in a system. In addition, the scale-out action refers to a process of adding more resources or instances to handle increaseddemand. For example, if traffic to a network function spikes, scaling out would involve adding more instances to distribute load. In an exemplary aspect, the PEEGN

[1088] of the MANO framework, is responsible for actual resource scaling through a scaling policy.

[0097] The NPDA

[1096] is also configured to receive, from an operations, administration, and management (0AM)

[0508] , a set of details related to the network function (NF) such VNF / CNF, in response to the received request for evaluation of the one or more resources, as shown in Step [7], Further, the NPDA

[1096] is also configured to store the received set of details in the NoSQL database

[1098] ,

[0098] Referring to FIG. 6, an exemplary implementation of the method flow

[0600] for performing the NPDA operations via the interfaces for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment, in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure is shown.

[0099] NPDA UI

[0602] : This interface is used to create / modify / delete / view threshold-based policies for a VNF or VNFC, CNF or CNFC. The resources alarms, counters and infra-metric data related policies are defined through UI

[0502] at NPDA

[1096] end.

[0100] NPDA_CL

[0604] : This interface is used to create / modify / delete / view VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC threshold-based policies at NPDA

[1096] using command line interface (CLI)

[0506] , Permitted operations will be pre-defined at NPDA

[1096] and those can be executed using this interface. In addition, configuration changes can be done using this interface.

[0101] NPDA LB

[0606] : This interface is used to distribute all incoming / outgoing requests to balance load equally on the instances of NPDA

[1096] ,

[0102] NPDA_OA

[0608] : This interface is a central connecting point of NPDA

[1096] , The instances of the NPDA module

[1096] register / deregister / reregister themselves using this interface. Central server thus receives IP port, Path, Component Broadcast Context, Subscribe Component Type etc. for instances of NPDA

[1096] , On successful registration, web socket connection is established between central server and NPDA

[1096] instances (using interface client). This interface broadcasts registration information to the subscribed micro service instances and provides data broadcast in which micro service can circulate data among their instances. That is how micro services manage HA (high availability) using data broadcast. This interface is alsoused to send fault, configuration, accounting, performance and security (FCAPS) request to respective micro service instances and also consolidates all the micro service FCAPS responses and sends the consolidated response to EMS.

[0103] NPDA EM

[0610] : This interface is used to route the events between all the micro services. It follows a subscription and notification model based on the events that are published to it. Each micro service registers its standard platform events with the interface. For each event, there can be multiple subscribers. Whenever the event of interest is received, the notifications are sent by this interface to the subscribers informing them of the said event.

[0104] NPDA CP

[0612] : This interface is used for notification of VNF / CNF / VNFC / CNFC instance resources load to NPDA

[1096] , Using the reported load NPDA

[1096] evaluates the policies defined for the respective VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC. Based on the evaluation appropriate actions such as scale-in / scale-out is suggest by NPDA

[1096] ,

[0105] NPDA PVIM

[0614] : This interface is used for notification of VNF / CNF / VNFC / CNFC instances resources alarms to NPDA

[1096] , Using the reported alarms NPDA

[1096] evaluates the policies defined for the respective VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC. Based on the evaluation appropriate actions such as healing are suggested by NPDA

[1096] ,

[0106] NPDA_NS

[0616] : This interface is used to store all the data in NoSql database

[1098] , In addition, any operation that needs to be performed on NoSql database

[1098] will be done using this interface.

[0107] NPDA PS

[0618] : This interface is used to inform scale-in / scale-out / healing of a VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC whenever the gating criteria yields to true which usually happens when there is a breach in the reported load at NPDA

[1096] end and that meets the defined policy criteria.

[0108] The present disclosure further discloses a non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing instructions for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment, the instructions include executable code which, when executed by one or more units of a system, cause a transceiver unit

[0302] to receive, at a network function virtualization platform decision analytics (NPDA) module, a request for performing evaluation of the one or more resources for the network function. The evaluation is based on one or more policiesdefined for the network function. The instructions when executed by the system further cause a detection unit

[0304] to detect, at the NPDA, a threshold breach event associated with the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies. The instructions when executed by the system further cause a processing unit

[0306] to perform, at the NPDA, a hysteresis-based computation of utilization of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event. The instructions when executed by the system further cause the transceiver unit

[0302] to trigger a notification for orchestration of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event.

[0109] As is evident from the above, the present disclosure provides a technically advanced solution for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment. The present solution provides a solution for evaluation of network resources utilization. The present disclosure further provides a system and method that allows for real time evaluation of VNF or VNFC or CNF or CNFC policy pertaining to breach in their thresholds help better resource optimization. The present invention further provides a solution to identify if evaluation of threshold breach event requires a hysteresis-based computation or not. On the fly evaluation of VNF or VNFC or CNF or CNFC policy pertaining to breach in their thresholds helps better resource optimization. The present disclosure also provides the ability to handle AND / OR combinations over thresholds of CPU, RAM, Bandwidth, KPI, Counter and Alarms using threshold-based policy evaluation of load of a VNF / VNFC or CNF / CNFC. The present disclosure further provides gating criteria for invocation of policy that needs to be triggered whenever the evaluation of load results in a breach.

[0110] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the disclosed implementations, it will be appreciated that many implementations can be made and that many changes can be made to the implementations without departing from the principles of the present disclosure. These and other changes in the implementations of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, whereby it is to be understood that the foregoing descriptive matter to be implemented is illustrative and non-limiting.[OHl] Further, in accordance with the present disclosure, it is to be acknowledged that the functionality described for the various components / units can be implemented interchangeably. While specific embodiments may disclose a particular functionality of these units for clarity, it is recognized that various configurations and combinations thereof are within the scope of the disclosure. The functionality of specific units as disclosed in the disclosure should not be construedas limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Consequently, alternative arrangements and substitutions of units, provided they achieve the intended functionality described herein, are considered to be encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A method [400] for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment, the method comprising:- receiving, by a transceiver unit [302] at a network function virtualization platform decision analytics (NPDA) module, a request for performing evaluation of the one or more resources for the network function, wherein the evaluation is based on one or more policies defined for the network function;- detecting, by a detection unit [304], at the NPDA, a threshold breach event associated with the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies; performing, by a processing unit [306], at the NPDA, a hysteresis-based computation of utilization of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event;- triggering, by the transceiver unit [302], a notification for orchestration of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event.

2. The method [400] as claimed in claim 1, wherein, the network function is one of a virtual network function (VNF) and a containerized network function (CNF).

3. The method [400] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more policies define a threshold breach criteria for each of the one or more resources.

4. The method [400] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the method comprises real-time evaluation of the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies for the network function.

5. The method [400] as claimed in claim 3, wherein at least one of the threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources is a combination of one or more threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources.

6. The method [400] as claimed in claim 5, wherein the hysteresis-based computation is performed if the threshold breach event is related to the threshold breach criteria which is a combination of the one or more threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources.

7. The method [400] as claimed in 3, wherein the one or more policies further define a hysteresis breach count for the one or more resources.

8. The method [400] as claimed in claim 7, wherein the hysteresis-based computation evaluates a count of detection of the threshold breach event and if the count breaches the hysteresis breach count defined in the one or more policies.

9. The method [400] as claimed in claim 8, wherein the notification for orchestration of the one or more resources is triggered if the count breaches hysteresis breach count.

10. The method [400] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more resources comprise a central processing units (CPU), a random memory access (RAM), network bandwidth, one or more key performance indicators (KPIs), a counter value, an alarm value, and combinations thereof.

11. The method [400] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the orchestration of the one or more resources comprises at least one of a healing action, a scale-in action, and a scale-out action.

12. A system [300] for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment, the system comprising:- a transceiver unit [302], configured to receive, at a network function virtualization platform decision analytics (NPDA) module, a request for performing evaluation of the one or more resources for the network function, wherein the evaluation is based on one or more policies defined for the network function;- a detection unit [304], configured to detect, at the NPDA, a threshold breach event associated with the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies;- a processing unit [306], configured to perform, at the NPDA, a hysteresis-based computation of utilization of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event;- the transceiver unit [302], configured to trigger, a notification for orchestration of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event.

13. The system [300] as claimed in claim 12, wherein, the network function is one of a virtual network function (VNF) and a containerized network function (CNF).

14. The system [300] as claimed in claim 12, wherein the one or more policies define a threshold breach criteria for each of the one or more resources.

15. The system [300] as claimed in claim 12, wherein the system is configured to perform realtime evaluation of the utilization of the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies for the network function.

16. The system [300] as claimed in claim 14, wherein, at least one of the threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources is a combination of one or more threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources.

17. The system [300] as claimed in claim 16, wherein the hysteresis-based computation is performed if the threshold breach event is related to the threshold breach criteria which is a combination of the one or more threshold breach criteria for the one or more resources.

18. The system as claimed in 14, wherein the one or more policies further define a hysteresis breach count for the one or more resources.

19. The system [300] as claimed in claim 18, wherein the hysteresis-based computation evaluates a count of detection of the threshold breach event and if the count breaches the hysteresis breach count defined in the one or more policies.

20. The system [300] as claimed in claim 19, wherein the notification for orchestration of the one or more resources is triggered if the count breaches the hysteresis breach count.

21. The system [300] as claimed in claim 12, wherein the one or more resources comprise a central processing units (CPU), a random memory access (RAM), network bandwidth, one or more key performance indicators (KPIs), a counter value, an alarm value, and combinations thereof.

22. The system [300] as claimed in claim 12, wherein the orchestration of the one or more resources comprises at least one of a healing action, a scale-in action, and a scale-out action.

23. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing instructions for evaluating one or more resources for a network function in a network environment, the storage medium comprising executable code which, when executed by one or more units of a system [300], causes: - a transceiver unit [302] to receive, at a network function virtualization platform decision analytics (NPDA) module, a request for performing evaluation of the one or more resources for the network function, wherein the evaluation is based on one or more policies defined for the network function;- a detection unit [304] to detect, at the NPDA, a threshold breach event associated with the one or more resources, based on the one or more policies;- a processing unit [306] to perform, at the NPDA, a hysteresis-based computation of utilization of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event;- the transceiver unit [302] to trigger, a notification for orchestration of the one or more resources, based on detecting the threshold breach event.

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