Data Center Network Orchestration for Automated Physical Provisioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cloud orchestration software lacks visibility into the physical network, requiring manual provisioning of physical networks independently of virtual networks, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A method for physical network orchestration that automates provisioning by utilizing existing information from cloud orchestration software, enabling seamless integration of virtual and physical networks through a centralized orchestration framework, using protocols like IEEE 802.1Qbg and DHCP, and storing configuration profiles in a network database.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual configuration is used for physical network provisioning, then administrators have control over network setup, but provisioning time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The physical network automatically configures itself by receiving configuration profiles from the virtual network through discovery protocols. The physical switch autonomously retrieves profiles based on segment IDs and applies configurations without administrator intervention, enabling the system to service itself.
Solution Approach 2:
A configuration profile acts as an intermediary data structure that carries network configuration information from the virtual network layer to the physical network layer. This profile enables automated translation of virtual network intentions into physical network configurations.
2Reliability
If virtual network is provisioned independently without physical network integration, then virtual network setup is simplified, but connectivity between virtual and physical networks fails
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback through discovery protocols where the virtual network communicates segment identification information to the physical network. The physical switch uses this feedback to retrieve appropriate configuration profiles and apply them, ensuring virtual and physical networks are properly integrated.
Solution Approach 2:
Configuration profiles are prepared in advance and stored in the physical network database before virtual networks are activated. When virtual networks are provisioned, the pre-prepared profiles are already available for immediate retrieval and application, ensuring seamless connectivity without complex real-time configuration.
3Productivity
If traditional network provisioning methods are used, then existing systems remain stable, but hardware utilization and deployment efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges virtual network provisioning with physical network configuration into a single automated process. By combining these previously separate operations, the system achieves one-click network provisioning that simultaneously handles both virtual and physical network setup, dramatically improving deployment efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided in one example embodiment and includes creating a segment organization, which includes a configuration profile. The method also includes attaching the configuration profile to a server in the segment organization. The method further includes sending the attached configuration profile to a database in a physical network.