BGP-LS Identifier Segmentation for Network Topology Consistency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current techniques for handling BGP-LS topology information lead to inconsistent network views due to mixing of entries from different BGP originators, resulting in inefficient use of computing and networking resources and potential traffic drops, as they wait for maximum convergence times to correct inconsistencies.
Innovation Solution
Assigning unique BGP-LS identifiers to each network device's topology information allows for differentiation as separate routes, enabling a network controller to select the primary route based on features like distance and credibility, thereby reducing convergence time and maintaining network consistency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If topology information from multiple BGP originators is mixed and stored as a single unified view, then network resource utilization is improved by consolidating data, but consistency of the network view deteriorates due to conflicting entries from different originators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments topology information by creating separate BGP-LS identifier spaces for each BGP originator. Each originator's topology entries are tagged with their unique BGP-LS identifier, allowing the system to maintain multiple segmented views rather than mixing all entries into a single unified view. This segmentation preserves consistency within each originator's view while still consolidating data storage.
2Reliability
If the system waits for maximum convergence time to correct inconsistencies in topology information, then reliability of routing decisions is improved, but loss of time deteriorates due to extended waiting periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism that tracks the convergence state of each BGP originator individually through separate BGP-LS identifiers. Instead of waiting for a global maximum convergence time, the system can identify when individual originators have converged and make routing decisions based on available consistent information, significantly reducing the waiting time while maintaining reliability.
3Device complexity
If topology information from different BGP originators is stored without differentiation, then device complexity is reduced by simplifying data structures, but measurement precision deteriorates due to inability to distinguish route origins
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the BGP originator identity into a separate BGP-LS identifier field that is taken out from the main topology data structure. This allows the system to maintain a relatively simple data structure while still preserving precise origin identification through the extracted identifier, which can be used for filtering and selection without complicating the core topology storage.
Data Source
AI summary
A device may receive first topology information from a first network device of a network, and may receive second topology information from a second network device of the network. The device may assign a first BGP-LS identifier to the first network device, and may associate the first topology information with the first BGP-LS identifier. The device may assign a second BGP-LS identifier to the second network device, and may associate the second topology information with the second BGP-LS identifier. The device may store the first topology information, as a first route, based on the first BGP-LS identifier, and may store the second topology information, as a second route, based on the second BGP-LS identifier. The device may select the first route or the second route as a primary route, and may utilize the primary route to control routing of traffic through the network.