Access Device OpenFlow Conversion for SDN Evolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing access networks face challenges in evolving into Software Defined Networking (SDN) architecture due to the need for significant manpower and investment, as well as the heavy workload associated with upgrading numerous FTTx devices in PON networks, which lack dynamic forwarding entry management and protocol stack modifications.
Innovation Solution
An access device receives configuration commands from a network management server, converts them into OpenFlow-protocol-based messages, and sends these messages to terminal devices to enable packet processing, allowing for the separation of the control plane from the data plane, thereby facilitating the evolution of access networks into SDN architecture with reduced maintenance costs and compatibility with existing network management systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If FTTx devices are upgraded to support SDN architecture, then adaptability and network innovation capability are improved, but device complexity and maintenance workload increase
Solution Approach 1:
An access device is introduced as an intermediary between the network management server and terminal devices. The access device receives configuration commands from the network management server, converts them into OpenFlow protocol messages, and forwards them to terminal devices. This intermediary approach enables SDN functionality without requiring complex modifications to existing terminal devices, thus improving adaptability while controlling device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of FTTx devices are upgraded to SDN architecture, then network flexibility and control are improved, but manpower and investment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The access device is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as a protocol converter, a controller, and a gateway between traditional and SDN architectures. By making the access device universal, the system can support both legacy and modern protocols, enabling gradual migration to SDN without requiring complete device replacement, thus reducing deployment costs while maintaining network flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The access device serves as a mediator that translates between traditional network management protocols and OpenFlow protocol. This translation capability allows existing terminal devices to continue operating while gaining SDN-controlled flexibility, avoiding the need to upgrade numerous devices and thereby reducing manpower and investment requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If configuration commands are converted to OpenFlow protocol messages, then protocol compatibility and SDN integration are improved, but processing complexity at the access device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The access device functions as a protocol intermediary that automatically converts configuration commands from traditional protocols into OpenFlow protocol messages. This conversion process is handled transparently by the access device, improving protocol compatibility without requiring complex processing at terminal devices, as the conversion logic is centralized in the access device.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a method for information exchange in an access network, an apparatus, and a system, and relates to the communications field. The method includes: receiving, by an access device, a configuration command from a network management server; converting the configuration command into an OpenFlow-protocol-based openflow message; and sending the openflow message to a terminal device, so that the terminal device configures an openflow flow table according to the openflow message.