Centralized Packet Processing Network Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network architectures with a hierarchical approach face challenges in managing a large number of access layer devices, leading to increased administrative efforts, costs, and potential failures due to the distribution of packet processing functions across multiple layers, which complicates network management and server accessibility.
Innovation Solution
A network device architecture that centralizes packet processing by shifting lower-layer protocol processing to upper-layer network devices, allowing lower-layer network devices to minimize packet processing and focus on minimal forwarding, thereby reducing the number of management points and costs, and enhancing network reliability and accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If packet processing functions are distributed across multiple network layers, then each layer can perform processing near the source/destination, but the number of management points increases and network administration becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts packet processing functions from lower-layer network devices and concentrates them in upper-layer network devices. Specifically, access layer devices forward packets to distribution layer devices without performing complex processing, while distribution layer devices perform all packet processing functions centrally, thereby reducing the number of management points while maintaining processing efficiency.
2Productivity
If access layer devices perform packet processing functions, then local processing can be performed near sources, but hardware and software costs increase due to replication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges all packet processing functions into the distribution layer network devices, eliminating the need for replicated processing capabilities in access layer devices. This consolidation reduces the total quantity of hardware and software resources required while maintaining the ability to process packets efficiently through centralized processing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more access layer devices are deployed to serve more clients, then network coverage increases, but the number of management points and potential failures increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts packet processing responsibilities from access layer devices and concentrates them in distribution layer devices. This allows access layer devices to be simplified and used universally without requiring complex processing capabilities, thereby increasing network coverage while reducing the number of management points and potential failure points at the access layer.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for centralized packet processing is disclosed. The method includes transferring a packet received at a port interface of a network device to an uplink interface of the network device, and sending the packet to an uplink from the uplink interface. The transferring and the sending are performed irrespective of a destination of the packet.