Access Device Abstraction for L2-L3 Network Migration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators face challenges in providing support for subscribers using legacy L3 access networks during the transition to L2 networks in vCPE architectures, as it is unrealistic to replace L3 networks simultaneously, and it is uncertain how long the transition period will last, making it difficult to rely on legacy network functions for L3 functionalities.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for establishing a data connection between a client device in a client network and devices in an operator's network, involving receiving a session establishment request, extracting client information, establishing a session on a different abstraction layer, and terminating the session to provide a data connection, allowing seamless integration and reduced provisioning costs by enabling a step-by-step migration from L3 to L2 networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If operators replace L3 access networks with L2 networks in vCPE architectures, then network virtualization and provisioning efficiency are improved, but the transition period becomes complex and legacy L3 subscriber support becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism that allows L2 network infrastructure to communicate with and support L3 legacy subscribers through abstraction and translation layers. This enables gradual migration where L2 infrastructure coexists with L3 services, resolving the contradiction between modernization benefits and transition complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic adaptability by allowing the network to operate in multiple modes (pure L2, hybrid L2/L3, or L3 legacy) depending on migration progress. This dynamic approach enables operators to transition incrementally rather than forcing a complete simultaneous replacement, reducing transition period complexity.
2Reliability
If operators rely on legacy network functions for L3 functionalities during transition, then subscriber support is maintained, but infrastructure modernization and virtualization benefits are delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network functionality by separating L2 infrastructure components from L3 service components. This segmentation allows L2 infrastructure to be modernized and virtualized while L3 services continue to be provided through abstracted interfaces, enabling independent evolution of each layer without compromising subscriber support.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements universal access mechanisms that allow the L2 infrastructure to serve both L2-native subscribers and L3 legacy subscribers through common interfaces and protocols. This multi-functionality enables the modernized infrastructure to maintain reliability for all subscribers while gaining the flexibility and virtualization benefits of L2 architecture.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for establishing a data connection between a client device, 'CD' in a client network, and one or more of devices, 'OD', of an operator's network, wherein said OD are connected with said CD via one or more access devices, 'AD', of an access network, wherein said networks are organized in abstraction layers, for example according to the OSI model, and wherein said CD are adapted to work on a first abstraction layer, 'AL', and wherein said OD are adapted to work on a second AL, comprising the steps of a) Receiving a session establishment request by said AD provided by said CD on said first AL, b) Extracting client information from said session establishment request by said AD, c) Establishing a session by said AD with said OD on said second AL using said extracted client information, when said second AL being different from said first AL, d) Extracting client network information from received information from said OD during said session establishment between said AD and said OD, e) Terminating session establishment with said CD by said AD using said extracted client network information to establish a session between said CD and said OD to provide a data connection.