Cross-Layer Bandwidth Aggregation via Network Driver
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bandwidth aggregation methods require network proxies, service level agreements, and modifications to the destination or network architecture, and fail to simultaneously estimate bandwidth across multiple interfaces without cross-layer techniques.
Innovation Solution
A cross-layer system that dynamically aggregates and estimates bandwidth across multiple physical interfaces using a network driver module, IP address assignment, and ICMP echo packets to measure network conditions, enabling adaptive bandwidth distribution without requiring proxies or modifications to the physical and data link layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If network proxies and service level agreements are used for bandwidth aggregation, then bandwidth aggregation capability is improved, but device complexity and system overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs bandwidth estimation and aggregation autonomously using local network driver module capabilities. The source system itself estimates bandwidth of multiple interfaces and distributes data without requiring external proxies or service level agreement infrastructure, making the system self-sufficient and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the bandwidth aggregation functionality from external network proxies and service level agreement mechanisms, embedding it directly in the local network driver module. This eliminates the need for separate proxy components and service level agreement infrastructure, reducing device complexity while maintaining aggregation capability
2Measurement precision
If cross-layer techniques are used for bandwidth estimation, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the bandwidth estimation process into distinct operational layers: the network driver module handles low-level interface monitoring and data collection, while the upper-layer application performs bandwidth calculation and distribution decisions. This segmentation allows precise cross-layer measurement without requiring complex integrated implementation across all protocol layers
Solution Approach 2:
The network driver module serves multiple functions: it manages physical network interfaces, collects network statistics, and provides bandwidth estimation data to applications. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, achieving precise measurement without proportionally increasing complexity
3Productivity
If multiple physical interfaces are aggregated, then available bandwidth is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to manual configuration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically estimates bandwidth of multiple interfaces and automatically adjusts data distribution in real-time based on current network conditions. This dynamic operation eliminates the need for manual static configuration, as the system adapts automatically to changing bandwidth availability across different interfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements continuous bandwidth estimation and feedback loops where the system monitors actual network performance, compares it with estimated bandwidth, and automatically adjusts data distribution across interfaces. This feedback mechanism enables automatic optimization without manual intervention, improving ease of operation while maintaining high bandwidth utilization
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a system and method for aggregating and estimating the bandwidth of the multiple network interfaces. Particularly, the invention provides a cross layer system for bandwidth aggregation based on dynamic analysis of network conditions. Further, the invention provides a system and method of estimation for evaluating bandwidth of multiple physical interfaces.