Data Plane Messaging for Rapid Link State Propagation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data networks, particularly satellite mesh networks, face prolonged degraded modes due to the time-consuming process of updating routing tables after link failures or congestion, which is exacerbated in large networks and those with frequent topology changes, leading to inefficient communication of link state information.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using preferential flooding through data plane messaging to initiate link state information updates at multiple locations, bypassing the conventional node-by-node control plane messaging, allowing for faster dissemination of link state information by transmitting express messages to remote target nodes that can initiate local flooding operations, thereby reducing the time network operates in a degraded state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If conventional control plane messaging is used for link state information dissemination, then routing table updates are performed accurately, but the time required for network topology updates increases proportionally with network size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the flooding process into two phases: an initial rapid phase using data plane messaging to reach remote target nodes, followed by a secondary phase using traditional control plane messaging for complete network coverage. This segmentation allows the network to benefit from both the speed of data plane communication and the reliability of control plane protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces target nodes as intermediaries that receive link state information via data plane messages and then initiate local flooding operations. These intermediaries act as catalysts that accelerate the propagation of topology updates by launching parallel flooding processes from multiple locations simultaneously.
2Reliability
If link state protocols periodically exchange messages to update routing tables, then network topology changes are detected, but the network operates in a degraded mode for extended periods during repeated outages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-establishes data plane message paths between nodes before topology changes occur. When a link failure is detected, these pre-configured paths enable immediate notification of remote target nodes without waiting for the standard periodic control plane message exchange, thus reducing the duration of degraded operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous network operation during topology changes by using data plane messaging to keep critical routing information flowing even when control plane updates are delayed. This continuity ensures that the network remains functional at higher performance levels rather than operating in degraded mode.
3Productivity
If express messages are transmitted through data plane to remote target nodes, then link state information propagates faster across the network, but additional messaging infrastructure is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes data plane messages serve dual functions: their traditional role in user data transport and a secondary role in carrying link state information for rapid topology updates. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated control plane infrastructure while achieving faster convergence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the control plane and data plane messaging functions by embedding link state information within data plane messages. This consolidation allows the existing data plane infrastructure to handle both user traffic and routing updates simultaneously, reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and apparatus for distributing link state information are provided. Network nodes propagate link state information via a control plane flooding operation. A first network node can initiate this propagation in response to a local link state change. In addition, some network nodes can via data plane messaging to transmit link state information to a remote node of the network. The remote node responds to the message by initiating a control plane flooding operation at that location. The remote node can be selected based on a variety of criteria, such as network traffic conditions, location, or network topology. Multiple remote nodes can be prompted in this manner to initiate flooding operations.