Delay Loop Paths for In-Order Packet Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Packet processing systems face challenges in maintaining in-order delivery of packets due to reordering during transmission, which can impact the performance of network security devices and end nodes, necessitating controlled delay mechanisms to manage out-of-sequence packets and traffic bursts.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing delay loop paths (DLPs) to introduce controlled delay in packet processing, where packets are determined to require delay based on properties like packet type and communication protocol, and are sent to selected DLPs for appropriate delay, allowing for flexible delay management and reordering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If packets are transmitted through a packet-switched network, then network connectivity and data transport are achieved, but packets may arrive out of sequence due to different routing paths and intermediate processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by calculating and storing round-trip time (RTT) values before packet transmission occurs. The system pre-determines delay values for out-of-sequence packets based on historical RTT data, so when packets arrive out of order, the appropriate delay is already predetermined and can be applied immediately without complex real-time calculations, thus maintaining both transport efficiency and delivery order.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of a delay queue that acts as a buffer between packet reception and final delivery. Out-of-sequence packets are placed in this intermediary queue where they hold position until their in-order counterparts arrive, effectively mediating the conflict between network transport speed and packet delivery sequence without blocking the entire system.
2Manufacturing precision
If delay is introduced for out-of-sequence packets to maintain in-order delivery, then packet sequencing is improved, but system processing time and resource usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting delay values based on RTT measurements and packet characteristics. Rather than using fixed or maximum delay values, the system calculates specific delay parameters tailored to each out-of-sequence packet's situation, changing the delay parameter to match the actual retransmission timing needs, thus minimizing unnecessary waiting time while ensuring proper sequencing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial action by applying delay only to the specific packets that are out of sequence, rather than delaying the entire packet stream. The in-order packets continue to be processed and delivered normally without any delay, while only the out-of-sequence packets are subjected to calculated delay values, thus minimizing the overall time loss to the system.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple delay values are used for different packet types and protocols, then packet processing accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a unified delay management framework that handles multiple packet types, protocols, and sequencing scenarios through a single RTT-based calculation mechanism. Rather than implementing separate delay systems for TCP, UDP, or different packet formats, the system uses one universal approach that adapts to various packet characteristics, thus improving delay accuracy across all packet types without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for introducing controlled delay of packet processing at a network device using one or more delay loop paths (DLPs). For each packet received at the network device, a determination will be made as to whether or not packet processing should be delayed. If delay is chosen, a DLP will be selected according to a desired delay for the packet. The desired delay value is used to determine a time value and inserts the time value in the DLP ahead of the packet. Upon completion of a DLP delay, a packet will be returned for processing, an additional delay, or some other action. One or more DLPs may be enabled with packet queues, and may be used advantageously by devices, for which in-order processing of packets may be desired or required.