Clos Network Load Balancing via IP-in-IP Encapsulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing 3-stage Clos network load balancing method is not applicable to large-scale deep-layer Clos network architectures, leading to poor traffic path control and load balancing effects in such networks.
Innovation Solution
The method involves determining a third switch in the second group of switches that connects the first and second switches, performing tunnel encapsulation with the destination IP address of the second switch, and IP-in-IP encapsulation with the destination IP address of the third switch, allowing for unique path selection and fine control of traffic paths in a large-scale deep-layer Clos network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the existing 3-stage Clos network load balancing method is used, then the load balancing works well in 3-stage networks, but it becomes inapplicable and loses effectiveness in large-scale deep-layer Clos network architectures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the Clos network into multiple stages with different switch groups, where first-group switches handle one level of forwarding and second-group switches handle another level. This segmentation allows the load balancing method to be adapted to deep-layer architectures by breaking down the complex path selection into manageable stages, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of path control by implementing two-level encapsulation (tunnel encapsulation plus IP-in-IP encapsulation) that adds hierarchical routing information. This dimensional extension enables the load balancing method to operate effectively in deep-layer networks by adding routing dimensions rather than simply extending the existing single-stage approach.
2Measurement precision
If multiple encapsulation layers are implemented for fine path control, then traffic path control precision improves, but packet processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary encapsulation actions at the source switch before packets enter the network core. By pre-encapsulating packets with tunnel headers and IP-in-IP headers containing path identification information, the system achieves fine path control without requiring complex real-time processing at intermediate switches, thus resolving the contradiction between precision and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces encapsulation headers as intermediary structures that carry path routing information through the network. These headers act as mediators between the source switch's path selection intent and the intermediate switches' forwarding actions, enabling precise path control while keeping intermediate switch processing simple and standardized.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a Clos network load balancing method and apparatus. In certain embodiments, the method includes receiving, by a first switch, a first packet and determining, by the first switch, a third switch. The third switch is a switch in a second group of switches. The method includes performing, by the first switch, tunnel encapsulation on the first packet, a destination Internet Protocol (IP) address in a tunnel-encapsulated IP header being an IP address of a second switch. The method includes performing, by the first switch, Internet Protocol in Internet Protocol (IP-in-IP) encapsulation on the tunnel-encapsulated first packet and sending, by the first switch, the IP-in-IP encapsulated first packet.