Network-element function decoupling method and apparatus, and device, storage medium and program product

Abstract

Provided are a network-element function decoupling method and apparatus, and a device, a storage medium and a program product. The method is executed by a controller, and comprises: receiving a service request; on the basis of the service request, determining, from a function resource pool, a target network-element function for processing the service request, wherein the function resource pool is used for deploying a network-element function of a target network element, and the target network element is a network element having the network-element function of processing a service request; and on the basis of the target network-element function, processing the service request.

Description

Network element function decoupling method and device, equipment, storage medium and program product

[0001] The present disclosure claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410904374.X, filed on July 5, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a network element function decoupling method and device, equipment, storage medium and program product. BACKGROUND

[0003] With the continuous development of network services, the investment cost of operators on network element devices is increasing. However, the functions of traditional network element devices are complex and the ecology is closed, and the network element devices are tightly coupled, which leads to low resource utilization of the network element devices, so that the network element devices cannot meet the needs of service development. Currently, the functions of network element devices can be decoupled by virtualizing the deployment of network element devices.

[0004] However, when the network element devices are decoupled by virtualizing the deployment, the functions of the network element devices are still deployed centrally, so there is still a problem that the functions of the network element devices are complex and the ecology is closed, which makes the virtualized deployment of the network element devices unable to adjust the resources of different functions inside the network element devices with the changes of services, resulting in low resource utilization. SUMMARY

[0005] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a network element function decoupling method, the method is executed by a controller, and includes: receiving a service request; determining a target network element function for processing the service request from a function resource pool according to the service request; the function resource pool is used to deploy a network element function of a target network element; the target network element is a network element having a network element function for processing the service request; and processing the service request based on the target network element function.

[0006] In an implementation manner, the determining of the target network element function for processing the service request from the function resource pool according to the service request includes: in a case where the target network element function exists in the function resource pool, selecting the target network element function from the function resource pool.

[0007] In an implementation manner, the determining of the target network element function for processing the service request from the function resource pool according to the service request includes: in a case where the target network element function does not exist in the function resource pool, creating the target network element function in the function resource pool; and selecting the target network element function from the function resource pool.

[0008] In an implementation manner, the method further includes: in a case where the target network element function is not used within a first preset time length, issuing a closing network element function instruction to the function resource pool; the closing network element function instruction is used for instructing the function resource pool to close the target network element function; and the closing network element function instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function.

[0009] In an implementation manner, the method further includes: in a case where the target network element function is not used within a first preset time length, issuing a closing network element function instruction to the function resource pool; the closing network element function instruction is used for instructing the function resource pool to close the target network element function; and the closing network element function instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function.

[0010] In an implementation manner, the method further includes: in a case where the target network element function is not used within a first preset time length, issuing a closing network element function instruction to the function resource pool; the closing network element function instruction is used for instructing the function resource pool to close the target network element function; and the closing network element function instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function.

[0011] In an implementation manner, the method further includes: in a case where the target network element function is not used within a first preset time length, issuing a closing network element function instruction to the function resource pool; the closing network element function instruction is used for instructing the function resource pool to close the target network element function; and the closing network element function instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function.

[0012] In an implementation manner, the method further includes: in a case where the target network element function is not used within a first preset time length, issuing a closing network element function instruction to the function resource pool; the closing network element function instruction is used for instructing the function resource pool to close the target network element function; and the closing network element function instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function.

[0013] In an implementation manner, the method further includes: in a case where the target network element function is not used within a first preset time length, issuing a closing network element function instruction to the function resource pool; the closing network element function instruction is used for instructing the function resource pool to close the target network element function; and the closing network element function instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function.

[0014] In an implementation manner, the target parameter comprises at least one of a basic parameter, a service parameter and a network parameter; the basic parameter comprises at least one of a current time point of a system and a system authentication parameter; the service parameter is used for enabling the target network element function to process a service request; and the network parameter is used for enabling the target network element function to process the service request in a preset order.

[0015] In an implementation manner, the controller is connected with a plurality of functional resource pools, and the plurality of functional resource pools are respectively deployed at different network locations.

[0016] In a second aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a network element function decoupling apparatus applied to a controller, the network element function decoupling apparatus comprising: a transmission unit, a determination unit and a processing unit; the transmission unit is configured to receive a service request; the determination unit is configured to determine a target network element function for processing the service request from a functional resource pool according to the service request; the functional resource pool is configured to deploy a network element function of a target network element; the target network element is a network element having the network element function for processing the service request; and the processing unit is configured to process the service request based on the target network element function.

[0017] In an implementation manner, the processing unit is further configured to select the target network element function from the functional resource pool in a case where the target network element function exists in the functional resource pool.

[0018] In an implementation manner, the processing unit is further configured to create the target network element function in the functional resource pool in a case where the target network element function does not exist in the functional resource pool; and the processing unit is further configured to select the target network element function from the functional resource pool.

[0019] In an implementation manner, the transmission unit is further configured to issue a network element function creation instruction to the functional resource pool; the network element function creation instruction is configured to instruct the functional resource pool to create the target network element function; and the network element function creation instruction comprises at least one of the following: an identifier of the functional resource pool, a type of the target network element function, and an attribute of the target network element function.

[0020] In an implementation manner, the transmission unit is configured to issue a network element function closing instruction to the functional resource pool in a case where the target network element function is not used within a first preset time length; the network element function closing instruction is configured to instruct the functional resource pool to close the target network element function; and the network element function closing instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function.

[0021] In an implementation manner, the transmission unit is further configured to issue a network element function opening instruction to the functional resource pool in a case where the target network element function needs to be used and the target network element function is closed; the network element function opening instruction is configured to instruct the functional resource pool to open the target network element function; and the network element function opening instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function.

[0022] In an implementation manner, the transmission unit is further configured to, in a case where the target network element function is not used within a second preset time length, issue a network element function deletion instruction to the function resource pool; the network element function deletion instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to delete the target network element function; the network element function deletion instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function; the second preset time length is greater than the first preset time length; and a difference between the second preset time length and the first preset time length is greater than a preset value.

[0023] In an implementation manner, the transmission unit is further configured to, in a case where a target parameter of the target network element function changes, issue a network element function modification instruction to the function resource pool; the network element function modification instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to modify the target parameter; and the network element function modification instruction comprises at least one of the following: an identifier of the target network element function and the target parameter.

[0024] In an implementation manner, the transmission unit is further configured to issue a network element function query instruction to the function resource pool; the network element function query instruction is used to query a use state of the target network element function; and the network element function query instruction comprises the following: an identifier of the target network element function and the use state being any one of the following: in use, closed or idle.

[0025] In an implementation manner, the target parameter comprises at least one of the following: a basic parameter, a service parameter and a network parameter; the basic parameter comprises at least one of the following: a current time point of a system and a system authentication parameter; the service parameter is used to enable the target network element function to process a service request; and the network parameter is used to enable the target network element function to process the service request in a preset order; and the processing unit is further configured to configure the target parameter for the target network element function.

[0026] In an implementation manner, the controller is connected with a plurality of function resource pools, and the plurality of function resource pools are respectively deployed at different network locations.

[0027] In a third aspect, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a processor and a memory. The memory is configured to store one or more programs including computer-executable instructions. When the electronic device is running, the processor executes the computer-executable instructions stored in the memory, so that the electronic device performs the network element function decoupling method according to the first aspect.

[0028] In a fourth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided. The computer-readable storage medium stores one or more programs including instructions. When the instructions are executed by a computer, the computer performs the network element function decoupling method according to the first aspect.

[0029] In a fifth aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a computer program product, when computer instructions run on an electronic device, the electronic device executes the network element function decoupling method according to the first aspect. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0030] FIG. 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a network element function decoupling system according to some embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a flow schematic diagram of a network element function decoupling method according to some embodiments.

[0032] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a function resource pool location according to some embodiments.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a flow schematic diagram of another network element function decoupling method according to some embodiments.

[0034] FIG. 5 is a flow schematic diagram of still another network element function decoupling method according to some embodiments.

[0035] FIG. 6 is a flow schematic diagram of still another network element function decoupling method according to some embodiments.

[0036] FIG. 7 is a flow schematic diagram of still another network element function decoupling method according to some embodiments.

[0037] FIG. 8 is a flow schematic diagram of still another network element function decoupling method according to some embodiments.

[0038] FIG. 9 is a flow schematic diagram of still another network element function decoupling method according to some embodiments.

[0039] FIG. 10 is a flow schematic diagram of still another network element function decoupling method according to some embodiments.

[0040] FIG. 11 is a flow schematic diagram of still another network element function decoupling method according to some embodiments.

[0041] FIG. 12 is a flow schematic diagram of still another network element function decoupling method according to some embodiments.

[0042] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a function creation according to some embodiments.

[0043] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a user requesting a broadband service according to some embodiments.

[0044] FIG. 15 is a structural schematic diagram of a network element function decoupling apparatus according to some embodiments.

[0045] FIG. 16 is a structural schematic diagram of an electronic device according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0047] In the description of the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, " / " means "or", for example, A / B can mean A or B. "And / or" in this document only describes the association relationship of the associated objects, which means that there can be three relationships, for example, A and / or B can mean: only A, A and B, and only B. In addition, "at least one" "multiple" means two or more. "First", "second", and the like do not limit the quantity and execution order, and "first", "second", and the like do not necessarily mean different.

[0048] With the continuous development of network services, the investment cost (including construction cost and management and maintenance cost) of the network element equipment of the operator is getting larger and larger, but the income growth of the service is getting slower. The continuous development of new services puts forward new demands on the devices of each level and each role in the network, but the traditional network element equipment has complex functions and a closed ecology, is tightly coupled with the device manufacturer, the resource utilization rate of the traditional network element equipment is unbalanced, which leads to low resource utilization rate of the network element equipment, and the automation and intelligent degree of the traditional network element equipment is low, and the automatic control adaptation is difficult, which leads to low service management and opening efficiency, so that the network element equipment cannot meet the demand of service development.

[0049] Network virtualization provides a train of thought for the network development of the operator, through the virtualization conversion of the infrastructure, the network element equipment is deployed in a virtualized manner, which can realize the decoupling of the network element function and the hardware resource, effectively improve the resource utilization rate of the network element equipment, and improve the intelligent control capability. However, the virtualization mode is only the evolution of the deployment form, and the complete capability of the device level still needs to be realized, which limits the improvement of the resource utilization rate of the network element equipment and flexible arrangement.

[0050] For example, after the network element equipment is virtualized, it is still realized in the form of a whole machine, and the problems of complex functions and closed ecology still exist. For example, for a broadband remote access server (BRAS) that manages and controls bandwidth access users, the BRAS needs to provide authentication, authorization, charging, traffic control and other functions as the core node of broadband services. Because the BRAS has complex functions, there are very high requirements for the research and development and production of the BRAS, and there are very few optional manufacturers on the market, so that the BRAS is tightly coupled with the supplier and the ecology is very closed.

[0051] After the network element device is virtualized, the problem of unbalanced resource utilization still exists. Since the service varies at different time periods and different services vary at any time, the virtualized network element device cannot adjust the resources of different functions inside the network element device in real time according to the changes of different services, thereby causing unbalanced resource utilization inside the network element device.

[0052] In summary, with the development of diversified service forms and differentiated service requirements, it is necessary to further refine the deployment form of the network element device and provide service capabilities in a more fine-grained and flexible manner, which can effectively cope with different service requirements and flexibly schedule resources to maximize resource utilization.

[0053] The present disclosure provides a network element function decoupling method. When a service needs to be requested, a controller can receive a service request, and according to the service request, determine a network element function for processing the service request from a function resource pool. The function resource pool is used to deploy a network element function of a network element that processes the service request. Further, based on the selected network element function, the service request is processed. That is, only the function of the service needs to be deployed in the function resource pool when the service is requested. The function of the service deployed in the function resource pool can be used to replace the corresponding network element to process the service request, and there is no need to deploy the function of the service that does not need to be requested in the function resource pool.

[0054] Through the above method, the function can be selected from the function resource pool to process the service request according to the service request, which solves the technical problem that the function of the virtualized network element device is complex and the ecological system is closed, so that the virtualized network element device cannot adjust the resources of different functions inside the network element device according to the changes of the service, resulting in low resource utilization, thereby improving the resource utilization.

[0055] The network element function decoupling method provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to a network element function decoupling system. FIG. 1 shows a structural schematic diagram of a network element function decoupling system. As shown in FIG. 1, the network element function decoupling system 10 includes a terminal device 11, a target network element 12, an application service layer 13, a controller 14, and a function resource pool 15. The terminal device 11, the target network element 12, the application service layer 13, the controller 14, and the function resource pool 15 can be connected in a wired manner or in a wireless manner, which is not limited in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0056] The terminal device 11 is configured to send a service request to the target network element 12; the target network element 12 is configured to forward the service request to the application service layer 13; the application service layer 13 is configured to provide detailed services (i.e., target services requested by the service request) to the controller 14 based on the service request; the controller 14 determines a function (i.e., a network element function) for executing the target service from a function resource pool in communication connection with the controller 14 according to the target service; and the function resource pool 15 is configured to process the service request based on the function selected by the controller 14.

[0057] It should be noted that the controller 14 can separate the capabilities required by the network service to form a plurality of function modules (e.g., function 1, function 2, function 3, function 4, and function 5 in FIG. 1), and independently deploy the function modules on servers, white boxes, hardware devices, and various forms, which can be virtualized or non-virtualized, and the resources and management between the function modules are independent. Thus, the function resource pool 15 is formed, which is connected to the controller 14, the controller 14 can manage and control each function in the function resource pool 15, and provide service orchestration capabilities upwardly. The controller 14 is connected to the application service layer 13 or other service orchestrators, and the application service layer 13 provides detailed services.

[0058] Exemplarily, the function resource pool 15 in FIG. 1 includes function 1, function 2, function 3, function 4, and function 5. The target network element 12 can be a BRAS network element, and the target service can be a broadband service. The corresponding functions of the target service are Point-to-Point Protocol Over Ethernet (PPPoE), IP over Ethernet (IPoE), and Network Address Translation (NAT). The PPPoE can be identified as function 4 in the function resource pool 15, the IPoE can be identified as function 5, and the NAT can be identified as function 1.

[0059] A network element function decoupling method provided by the embodiment of the present disclosure is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. As shown in FIG. 2, the network element function decoupling method provided by the embodiment of the present disclosure is executed by a controller, and includes S201-S203.

[0060] S201, receiving a service request.

[0061] It can be understood that the controller can receive the service request.

[0062] In some embodiments, when a terminal device needs to request a target service, it can send a service request to the network element executing the target service. Further, the terminal device can forward the service request to the application service layer, which can then provide the target service to the controller via an interface based on the target service corresponding to the service request. Further, the controller can receive the target service.

[0063] S202. Based on the service request, determine the target network element function from the functional resource pool to process the service request.

[0064] The functional resource pool is used to deploy the network element functions of the target network element; the target network element is a network element that has the function of processing service requests.

[0065] Understandably, the controller can determine the target network element function to process the service request from the functional resource pool that is connected to the controller, based on the service request.

[0066] In some embodiments, the controller can determine the target network element function for executing the target service from the functional resource pool that is in communication with the controller, based on the target service requested by the service request.

[0067] S203. Process service requests based on the target network element function.

[0068] Understandably, the controller can process service requests based on the target network element's functionality.

[0069] In some embodiments, the controller can execute target services based on the target network element functions.

[0070] It should be noted that, as a capability substitute for network element devices, the functional resource pool can be deployed not only at the physical location of the network element devices, but also flexibly deployed on demand according to resource, service and other requirements.

[0071] In some embodiments, the controller connects to multiple functional resource pools, which are deployed in different network locations. These multiple functional resource pools are functional resource pools of different levels.

[0072] When the network is small (e.g., the network is only a single-level network), only one level of functional resource pool can be set up, and all business traffic (i.e. business requests) that need to be processed can be directed to this functional resource pool for processing.

[0073] When the network is large (e.g., the network includes Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 networks), the processing pressure on a single-tier functional resource pool is high, and it cannot meet the diverse needs of different services. Therefore, multiple tiers of functional resource pools can be set up, and the functional resource pools of different tiers can be deployed in different network locations.

[0074] Exemplarily, as shown in FIG. 3, when the network scale is a one-level network, a one-level function resource pool is deployed at the network location of the one-level network; when the network scale is a one-level network, a two-level network and a three-level network, a one-level function resource pool is deployed at the network location of the one-level network, a two-level function resource pool is deployed at the network location of the two-level network, and a three-level function resource pool is deployed at the network location of the three-level network.

[0075] It should be noted that the one-level function resource pool is deployed at a higher network location as a central resource pool, and can implement centralized service requirements (for example, services with low requirements on time delay and strong computing power); the two-level function resource pool is deployed at an intermediate network location as a regional resource pool, and can implement some services with high bandwidth and low time delay; and the three-level function resource pool is deployed at a lower network location (for example, a location very close to a terminal device access location) as an edge resource pool, and can implement services with ultra-low time delay and fast computing.

[0076] In an implementation manner, different levels of function resource pools are deployed at different network locations, so as to implement different types of services through different levels of function resource pools, and avoid the problem that the pressure of the function resource pool is too large and cannot guarantee various services.

[0077] In a design, as shown in FIG. 4, in the network element function decoupling method provided by the embodiment of the disclosure, S202 includes S301.

[0078] S301, in a case where the target network element function exists in the function resource pool, selecting the target network element function from the function resource pool.

[0079] In some embodiments, the controller can determine the target network element function required for executing the target service.

[0080] Exemplarily, the target service can be a broadband service, and the target network element function required for the target service can be PPPoE, IPoE and NAT.

[0081] In some embodiments, in a case where the target network element function required for executing the target service exists in the function resource pool, the controller can select the target network element function required for executing the target service from the function resource pool.

[0082] In an implementation manner, by determining the function required for executing the service, the function required for the service is conveniently deployed in the function resource pool, so as to replace the function in the original network element executing the service by the function deployed in the function resource pool, implement the function decoupling of the network element, and improve the efficiency of resource utilization.

[0083] In one design, as shown in FIG. 5, in the network element function decoupling method provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure, S202 includes S401-S402.

[0084] S401, in the case where the target network element function does not exist in the function resource pool, creating the target network element function in the function resource pool.

[0085] S402, selecting the target network element function from the function resource pool.

[0086] In some embodiments, in the case where the target network element function does not exist in the function resource pool, the controller can create the target network element function in the function resource pool. Further, the controller can receive a message indicating whether the creation of the target network element function is successful through a corresponding interface.

[0087] In one implementation, by creating the function required for performing the service in the function resource pool, the function required for performing the service can be selected from the function resource pool, which facilitates the subsequent performance of the service through the selected function and improves the efficiency of the service performance.

[0088] In one design, as shown in FIG. 6, in the network element function decoupling method provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure, the "creating the target network element function in the function resource pool" in S401 includes S501.

[0089] S501, issuing a network element function creation instruction to the function resource pool.

[0090] The network element function creation instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to create the target network element function; the network element function creation instruction includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the function resource pool, a type of the target network element function (i.e., a type of the function execution capability), an attribute of the target network element function, and other possible required parameters.

[0091] In some embodiments, the controller can issue the network element function creation instruction to the function resource pool by invoking a corresponding interface. Further, the function resource pool can create the target network element function based on the network element function creation instruction.

[0092] In one implementation, by creating the function required for performing the service in the function resource pool, the function required for performing the service can be selected from the function resource pool, which facilitates the subsequent performance of the service through the selected function and improves the efficiency of the service performance.

[0093] In one design, as shown in FIG. 7, the network element function decoupling method provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure further includes S601.

[0094] S601, in the case where the target network element function is not used within a first preset time length, issuing a network element function closing instruction to the function resource pool.

[0095] The closing network element function instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to close a target network element function; the closing network element function instruction comprises at least one of the following: an identity (i.e. an identity document (ID)) of the target network element function, and other possible required parameters.

[0096] In some embodiments, in the case where the target network element function is not used within a first preset time length, the controller can issue a closing network element function instruction to the function resource pool by calling a corresponding interface, and further, the function resource pool can close the target network element function based on the closing network element function instruction.

[0097] Further, the controller can receive a message through a corresponding interface indicating whether the closing of the target network element function is successful.

[0098] For example, the controller can restart the closed function 2 in the function resource pool by calling a corresponding interface.

[0099] In an implementation manner, by closing the functions in the function resource pool that are not used temporarily, network pressure can be relieved.

[0100] In a design, as shown in FIG. 8, the network element function decoupling method provided by the embodiment of the present disclosure further comprises S701.

[0101] S701, in the case where a target network element function needs to be used and the target network element function is closed, issuing an opening network element function instruction to the function resource pool.

[0102] The opening network element function instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to open a target network element function; the opening network element function instruction comprises at least one of the following: an identity of the target network element function, and other possible required parameters.

[0103] In some embodiments, in the case where a target network element function needs to be used and the target network element function is closed, the controller can issue an opening network element function instruction to the function resource pool by calling a corresponding interface, and further, the function resource pool can open the target network element function based on the opening network element function instruction.

[0104] Further, the controller can receive a message through a corresponding interface indicating whether the opening of the target network element function is successful.

[0105] For example, the controller can restart the closed function 2 in the function resource pool by calling a corresponding interface.

[0106] In an implementation manner, by restarting the closed network element function, the closed network element function can be used in time.

[0107] In one design, as shown in FIG. 9, the method for decoupling network element functions further includes S801.

[0108] S801, in a case where the target network element function is not used within a second preset time period, issuing a delete network element function instruction to the function resource pool.

[0109] The delete network element function instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to delete the target network element function, and includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the target network element function, and other possible parameters.

[0110] In some embodiments, in a case where the target network element function is not used within the second preset time period, the controller can issue a delete network element function instruction to the function resource pool by invoking a corresponding interface. Further, the function resource pool can delete the target network element function based on the delete network element function instruction.

[0111] Further, the controller can receive a message indicating whether the target network element function is successfully deleted through a corresponding interface.

[0112] For example, the controller can delete function 2 in the function resource pool by invoking a corresponding interface.

[0113] In one implementation, by deleting a function in the function resource pool that is not used for a long time, the resources occupied by the function can be released, and resource utilization can be improved.

[0114] In one design, as shown in FIG. 10, the method for decoupling network element functions further includes S901.

[0115] S901, in a case where a target parameter of a target network element function changes, issuing a modify network element function instruction to the function resource pool.

[0116] The modify network element function instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to modify the target parameter, and includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the target network element function, the target parameter, and other possible parameters.

[0117] In some embodiments, in a case where the target parameter of the target network element function changes, the controller can issue a modify network element function instruction to the function resource pool. Further, the function resource pool can modify the target parameter based on the modify network element function instruction.

[0118] Further, the controller can receive a message indicating whether the target parameter is successfully modified through a corresponding interface.

[0119] In an implementation, by timely modifying the parameters of which the network element function changes, the network element function can be prevented from making mistakes when performing services.

[0120] In one design, as shown in FIG. 11, the method for decoupling network element functions provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure further includes S1001.

[0121] S1001, issuing a query network element function instruction to the function resource pool.

[0122] The query network element function instruction is used to query the usage state of the target network element function; the query network element function instruction includes at least one of the following: the identification of the target network element function, and other possible required parameters; the usage state is any of the following: in use, closed, or idle.

[0123] In some embodiments, the controller can issue the query network element function instruction to the function resource pool by invoking a corresponding interface. Further, the function resource pool can query the usage state of the target network element function and return the usage state of the target network element function to the controller. The controller can receive the usage state of the target network element function through a corresponding interface.

[0124] For example, if the usage state of the network element function is in use, other network element functions can be selected for use; if the usage state of the network element function is closed, the network element function can be started; and if the usage state of the network element function is idle, the network element function can be directly used.

[0125] In one way, by querying the usage state of the network element function before using the network element function, the network element function can be prevented from being unable to use.

[0126] In one design, as shown in FIG. 12, the method for decoupling network element functions provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure, the target parameters include at least one of the following: basic parameters, service parameters, and network parameters; the basic parameters include at least one of the following: the current time point of the system, system authentication parameters; the service parameters are used to enable the functions required for performing the target service; the network parameters are used to enable the functions required for performing the target service in a preset order; after the above S401, the method further includes S1101.

[0127] S1101, configuring target parameters for the target network element function.

[0128] In some embodiments, the controller can configure the basic parameters for the target network element function by invoking a corresponding interface.

[0129] Further, the controller can receive a message indicating whether the configuration of the basic parameters for the target network element function is successful through a corresponding interface.

[0130] Exemplarily, the system clock's time zone and time parameter, the Network Time Protocol (NTP) server of the system clock, the administrator account parameter of the NAT function, the basic parameters such as the management hierarchical authority, and the like are configured for the NAT function.

[0131] In some embodiments, the controller can configure the service parameter for the target network element function through calling the corresponding interface.

[0132] Further, the controller can receive the message whether the configuration of the service parameter for the target network element function is successful through the corresponding interface.

[0133] Exemplarily, when the service parameter is configured for the NAT function, the service parameter can be the Internet Protocol (IP) address translation policy, the translation address pool range, the translation address pool size, and the address allocation policy; when the service parameter is configured for the IPoE function, the service parameter can be the user authentication policy.

[0134] In some embodiments, the controller can receive the message whether the configuration of the service parameter for the target network element function is successful through the corresponding interface.

[0135] The controller can configure the network parameter for the target network element function through calling the corresponding interface.

[0136] Further, the controller can receive the message whether the configuration of the service parameter for the target network element function is successful through the corresponding interface.

[0137] Exemplarily, when the target service is the broadband service, and the function required for executing the target service is the PPPoE function, the IPoE function, and the NAT function, each function can be concatenated through a 3-layer Virtual Private Network (VPN) private line or a 2-layer VPN private line, and the like, to form a complete service service, and the service traffic (i.e., the service request) can pass through each function through the VPN private line, to perform corresponding data processing (for example, the NAT address translation, the user authentication, the billing, and the like in the broadband service), so as to realize the complete path of the broadband service.

[0138] For the NAT function, the conversion between the Internet Protocol version 4 (IPv4) and the Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) address can be realized based on the set address pool through the interface, and the address pool and the conversion rule in the NAT function should be set in advance, so as to directly perform the address conversion in the traffic data packet when the service traffic flows through the function.

[0139] It should be noted that the multiple functions required by the service can be concatenated by network configuration to realize a complete service capability.

[0140] Exemplarily, as shown in FIG. 13, the controller can issue, to function 1, an instruction to create function 1, an instruction to configure a basic parameter for function 1, an instruction to configure a service parameter for function 1, and an instruction to configure a network parameter for function 1; and the controller can issue, to function 2, an instruction to create function 2, an instruction to configure a basic parameter for function 2, an instruction to configure a service parameter for function 2, and an instruction to configure a network parameter for function 2.

[0141] In an implementation manner, by configuring various parameters for the functions required by the service in the function resource pool, the functions deployed in the function resource pool can successfully perform the corresponding service.

[0142] In an implementation manner, as shown in FIG. 14, when a user needs to access the Internet and use the broadband service provided by an operator, the user can issue a service traffic (i.e., a service request) of requesting the broadband service through a terminal device A, the service traffic is uplink to the access device of the metropolitan area network, and then is guided to the corresponding function resource pool by the BRAS device. The controller of the function resource pool is configured to make the service traffic flow through function 4 (i.e., the PPPoE function), function 5 (i.e., the IPoE function), and function 1 (i.e., the NAT function) in the function resource pool through the VPN private line, so that the service traffic is authenticated by the account of the operator, is converted by the address, and obtains the permission to access the Internet. Then, the service traffic flows out of the function resource pool and returns to the metropolitan area network of the operator, enters the Internet via the core device, and is finally processed.

[0143] The present disclosure provides a network element function decoupling method. The present disclosure decouples the complex closed network element device and constructs a function resource pool, and proposes an arrangement interface and a method for implementing service capability in a function decoupling system architecture. The capability can be managed and controlled by a controller, the deployment and management of the independent function of the network element device are realized, the resource utilization is greatly improved, and the construction and operation and maintenance costs can be effectively reduced. Meanwhile, the controller manages and arranges the decoupled functions to make them provide efficient and flexible service capability, so that the differentiated, flexible, and various service service capability can be provided for the user demand, the service experience is improved on one hand, and the product value-added capability is improved on the other hand.

[0144] The above describes the scheme provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure from the method aspect. To implement the above functions, hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the respective functions are included. Those skilled in the art should easily realize that, in combination with the units and algorithm steps of the examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, the embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented in the form of hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a certain function is implemented in the form of hardware or computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of the present disclosure.

[0145] The embodiments of the present disclosure can divide the function modules of a network element function decoupling method according to the above method examples. For example, each function module can be divided according to each function, or two or more functions can be integrated in one processing module. The above integrated module can be implemented in the form of hardware or in the form of a software function module. In some embodiments, the division of the modules in the embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrative, and is only a logical function division. In actual implementation, another division method can be used.

[0146] FIG. 15 is a structural schematic diagram of a network element function decoupling apparatus according to some embodiments. As shown in FIG. 15, the network element function decoupling apparatus 100 provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure is used to improve resource utilization, for example, to implement the network element function decoupling method shown in FIG. 2. The network element function decoupling apparatus 100 includes a transmission unit 1001, a determination unit 1002, and a processing unit 1003.

[0147] The transmission unit 1001 is configured to receive a service request.

[0148] The determination unit 1002 is configured to determine, according to the service request, a target network element function for processing the service request from a function resource pool. The function resource pool is used to deploy a network element function of a target network element. The target network element is a network element having the network element function for processing the service request.

[0149] The processing unit 1003 is configured to process the service request based on the target network element function.

[0150] In an implementation manner, the processing unit 1003 is further configured to select the target network element function from the function resource pool in a case where the target network element function exists in the function resource pool.

[0151] In an implementation manner, the processing unit 1003 is further configured to create the target network element function in the function resource pool in a case where the target network element function does not exist in the function resource pool. The processing unit 1003 is further configured to select the target network element function from the function resource pool.

[0152] In an implementation manner, the transmission unit 1001 is further configured to issue a create network element function instruction to the function resource pool; the create network element function instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to create a target network element function; and the create network element function instruction comprises at least one of the following: an identifier of the function resource pool, a type of the target network element function, and an attribute of the target network element function.

[0153] In an implementation manner, the transmission unit 1001 is configured to issue a close network element function instruction to the function resource pool in a case where the target network element function is not used within a first preset time length; the close network element function instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to close the target network element function; and the close network element function instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function.

[0154] In an implementation manner, the transmission unit 1001 is further configured to issue an open network element function instruction to the function resource pool in a case where the target network element function needs to be used and the target network element function is closed; the open network element function instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to open the target network element function; and the open network element function instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function.

[0155] In an implementation manner, the transmission unit 1001 is further configured to issue a delete network element function instruction to the function resource pool in a case where the target network element function is not used within a second preset time length; the delete network element function instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to delete the target network element function; the delete network element function instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function; the second preset time length is greater than the first preset time length; and a difference between the second preset time length and the first preset time length is greater than a preset value.

[0156] In an implementation manner, the transmission unit 1001 is further configured to issue a modify network element function instruction to the function resource pool in a case where a target parameter of the target network element function changes; the modify network element function instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to modify the target parameter; and the modify network element function instruction comprises at least one of the following: an identifier of the target network element function and the target parameter.

[0157] In an implementation manner, the transmission unit 1001 is further configured to issue a query network element function instruction to the function resource pool; the query network element function instruction is used to query a use state of the target network element function; and the query network element function instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function, and the use state is any one of the following: in use, closed, or idle.

[0158] In an implementation manner, the target parameter comprises at least one of a basic parameter, a service parameter and a network parameter; the basic parameter comprises at least one of a current time point of the system and a system authentication parameter; the service parameter is used for enabling the target network element function to process a service request; and the network parameter is used for enabling the target network element function to process the service request according to a preset order. The processing unit 1003 is further configured to configure the target parameter for the target network element function.

[0159] In an implementation manner, the controller is connected with a plurality of function resource pools, and the plurality of function resource pools are respectively deployed at different network locations.

[0160] In a case where the functions of the above integrated modules are implemented in the form of hardware, the electronic device involved in the above embodiments is provided with a structural diagram by the embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 16, the electronic device 120 provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure is used for improving resource utilization, for example, for executing the network element function decoupling method shown in FIG. 2. The electronic device 120 includes a processor 1201, a memory 1202 and a bus 1203. The processor 1201 and the memory 1202 can be connected through the bus 1203.

[0161] The processor 1201 is the control center of the electronic device 120, which can be one processor or a general term of a plurality of processing elements. For example, the processor 1201 can be a general central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, etc. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor, etc.

[0162] As an embodiment, the processor 1201 can include one or more CPUs, such as CPU 0 and CPU 1 shown in FIG. 16.

[0163] The memory 1202 can be a read-only memory (ROM) or other types of static storage devices that can store static information and instructions, a random access memory (RAM) or other types of dynamic storage devices that can store information and instructions, an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a magnetic disk storage medium or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program codes in the form of instructions or data structures and accessible by a computer, but not limited thereto.

[0164] As an implementation, the memory 1202 can exist independently of the processor 1201, or the memory 1202 can be connected to the processor 1201 via the bus 1203 for storing instructions or program codes. When the processor 1201 invokes and executes the instructions or program codes stored in the memory 1202, the method for decoupling network element functions provided in the embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented.

[0165] In another implementation, the memory 1202 can also be integrated with the processor 1201.

[0166] The bus 1203 can be an industry standard architecture (ISA) bus, a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) bus, an extended industry standard architecture (EISA) bus, or the like. The bus can be divided into an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, and the like. For ease of representation, only one thick line is shown in FIG. 16, but it does not mean that there is only one bus or only one type of bus.

[0167] It should be noted that the structure shown in FIG. 16 does not limit the electronic device 120. In addition to the components shown in FIG. 16, the electronic device 120 can include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or different arrangement of components.

[0168] As an example, in combination with FIG. 15, the functions implemented by the transmission unit 1001, the determination unit 1002, and the processing unit 1003 in the network element function decoupling apparatus 100 are the same as the functions of the processor 1201 in FIG. 16.

[0169] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 16, the electronic device 120 provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure can further include a communication interface 1204.

[0170] The communication interface 1204 is configured to connect with other devices via a communication network. The communication network can be an Ethernet, a wireless access network, a wireless local area network (WLAN), or the like. The communication interface 1204 can include a receiving unit for receiving data, and a sending unit for sending data.

[0171] In one design, the communication interface in the electronic device provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure can also be integrated in the processor.

[0172] Those skilled in the art can clearly understand the above-described method embodiments through the description of the above-described embodiments. For the convenience and brevity of description, only the above-described division of functional units is exemplified. In actual application, the above-described functions can be completed by different functional units according to needs, that is, the internal structure of the device is divided into different functional units to complete all or part of the above-described functions. The detailed working processes of the above-described system, device, and unit can refer to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be described here.

[0173] The embodiments of the present disclosure further provide a computer readable storage medium, which stores instructions. When a computer executes the instructions, the computer executes each step in the method flow shown in the above-described method embodiments. The readable storage medium includes a non-transitory computer readable storage medium.

[0174] The embodiments of the present disclosure provide a computer program product, which includes computer instructions. When the computer instructions run on an electronic device, the electronic device executes the network element function decoupling method provided in the above-described method embodiments.

[0175] The computer readable storage medium may, for example, be, but is not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, device, or apparatus, or any combination of the above. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium include an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), a register, a hard disk, an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any other suitable combination of the above, or any other form of computer readable storage medium.

[0176] An exemplary storage medium is coupled to the processor so that the processor can read information from the storage medium and write information to the storage medium. Of course, the storage medium can also be a part of the processor. The processor and the storage medium can be located in an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0177] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, the computer-readable storage medium can be any tangible medium containing or storing a program, which can be used by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, apparatus or device.

[0178] Since the electronic device, the computer-readable storage medium, and the computer program product in the embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to the above method, the technical effects they can obtain can also be referred to the above method embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0179] The above is only a specific implementation of the present disclosure, but the protection scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and any change or replacement within the technical scope disclosed in the present disclosure should be covered within the protection scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A method for decoupling network element functions, wherein, The method is executed by a controller and comprises: receiving a service request; determining a target network element function for processing the service request from a function resource pool according to the service request; the function resource pool is used to deploy network element functions of a target network element; the target network element is a network element having a network element function for processing the service request; processing the service request based on the target network element function.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The determining a target network element function for processing the service request from the function resource pool according to the service request comprises: selecting the target network element function from the function resource pool in the case that the target network element function exists in the function resource pool.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, The determining a target network element function for processing the service request from the function resource pool according to the service request comprises: creating the target network element function in the function resource pool in the case that the target network element function does not exist in the function resource pool; selecting the target network element function from the function resource pool.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, The creating the target network element function in the function resource pool comprises: issuing a network element function creation instruction to the function resource pool; the network element function creation instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to create the target network element function; the network element function creation instruction comprises at least one of the following: an identifier of the function resource pool, a type of the target network element function, and an attribute of the target network element function.

5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: issuing a network element function closing instruction to the function resource pool in the case that the target network element function is not used within a first preset time length; the network element function closing instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to close the target network element function; the network element function closing instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function.

6. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: issuing a network element function opening instruction to the function resource pool in the case that the target network element function needs to be used and the target network element function is closed; the network element function opening instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to open the target network element function; the network element function opening instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function.

7. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: issuing a network element function deletion instruction to the function resource pool in the case that the target network element function is not used within a second preset time length; the network element function deletion instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to delete the target network element function; the network element function deletion instruction comprises an identifier of the target network element function; wherein the second preset time length is greater than the first preset time length; a difference between the second preset time length and the first preset time length is greater than a preset value.

8. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: In a case where a target parameter of the target network element function changes, a modification network element function instruction is issued to the function resource pool; the modification network element function instruction is used to instruct the function resource pool to modify the target parameter; the modification network element function instruction comprises at least one of the following: an identifier of the target network element function, the target parameter.

9. The method of any one of claims 1-3, further comprising: issuing a query network element function instruction to the function resource pool; the query network element function instruction is used to query a usage state of the target network element function; the query network element function instruction comprises: an identifier of the target network element function, and the usage state is any one of the following: in use, off or idle.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein, The target parameter comprises at least one of the following: a basic parameter, a service parameter and a network parameter; the basic parameter comprises at least one of the following: a current time point of a system, a system authentication parameter; the service parameter is used to enable the target network element function to process the service request; The network parameter is used to enable the target network element function to process the service request in a preset order; After the target network element function is created in the function resource pool, the method further comprises: configuring the target parameter for the target network element function.

11. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The controller is connected with a plurality of function resource pools, and the plurality of function resource pools are respectively deployed at different network locations.

12. A network element function decoupling apparatus, wherein, The device is applied to a controller and comprises a transmission unit, a determination unit and a processing unit; The transmission unit is configured to receive a service request. The determination unit is configured to determine, according to the service request, a target network element function for processing the service request from a function resource pool; the function resource pool is used to deploy a network element function of a target network element; the target network element is a network element having a network element function for processing the service request. The processing unit is configured to process the service request based on the target network element function.

13. An electronic device comprising: A processor and a memory; The memory is configured to store one or more programs, the one or more programs comprising computer execution instructions; when the electronic device is running, the processor executes the computer execution instructions stored in the memory, so that the electronic device executes the method according to any one of claims 1-11.

14. A computer readable storage medium, wherein, The computer readable storage medium stores one or more programs, the one or more programs comprising instructions, the instructions causing the computer to execute the method according to any one of claims 1-11 when executed by the computer.

15. A computer program product, wherein, The computer program product comprises computer instructions, when the computer instructions are running on an electronic device, the electronic device executes the method according to any one of claims 1-11.

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