CDN Policy-Based Content Processing Using Dynamic Resource Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Content delivery networks (CDNs) lack flexibility in adapting to customer needs due to inflexible topology and limited customization options, resulting in missed opportunities for content processing and management.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for flexibly processing content objects within a CDN by using geographically distributed points of presence (POPs) with storage bricks and resources chosen based on characterization tags, and policies that determine processing procedures, allowing for dynamic storage and retrieval of content objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If CDN uses fixed topology with limited customization options, then system complexity is reduced, but adaptability to customer needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic resource selection by allowing the CDN to choose from multiple resources (storage bricks, processing nodes) based on real-time conditions. The system dynamically determines which resources to use for content processing and delivery, enabling adaptation to varying customer needs without changing the fundamental topology structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter-based resource characterization where resources are described by tags and attributes that can be dynamically queried and filtered. By changing selection criteria based on customer requirements (e.g., geographic location, performance characteristics, cost), the system adapts to different needs while maintaining the same infrastructure.
2Speed
If CDN has more geographically distributed POPs, then delivery performance is improved, but resource availability per POP deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by adding a resource pooling dimension across the distributed POPs. Instead of each POP having limited local resources, the system creates a virtual resource pool that spans multiple POPs. Resources are characterized by tags and can be selected from any POP, effectively multiplying available resources while maintaining fast local delivery through the distributed topology.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes resources universal by allowing any resource in the CDN to serve multiple purposes and any POP to access resources from any other POP. Resources are not bound to specific POPs but can be dynamically assigned based on demand, enabling a single resource to serve multiple functions and locations simultaneously.
3Adaptability or versatility
If CDN provides flexible resource selection and processing options, then customization capability is improved, but operational complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a policy manager as an intermediary component that handles the complexity of resource selection and policy enforcement. This mediator automatically determines which resources to use based on customer requirements and CDN state, shielding operators from the underlying complexity while enabling flexible customization through high-level policy definitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service through automated resource selection where the CDN autonomously determines optimal resource allocation based on characterized resources and customer policies. The policy manager automatically matches resources to content objects based on tags and criteria, eliminating manual configuration complexity while maintaining customization capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for processing content objects with resources associated with a content delivery network (CDN) having a plurality of geographically distributed points of presence (POPs) is disclosed. The resources are enrolled to be accessible from the CDN. Each resource is categorized using tags that categorize the resources. Selection of a policy from a plurality of policies is received, where the plurality of policies define processes to perform on content objects. The selected policy includes an applicability criteria and a call to the resource. Metadata is received at the CDN, the metadata being related to a content object, a requester of the content object and/or a provider of the content object. It is determined that the policy is applicable through analysis of the metadata and/or applicability criteria. The resource is called according to the call in the policy to cause the resource to perform specified processing on the content object.