Distributed Control Plane Functions for Radio Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radio-based networks face challenges in efficiently managing control plane functions, leading to potential single points of failure, high latency, and reduced flexibility in deploying network functions across edge and centralized locations.
Innovation Solution
A distributed control plane architecture that splits control plane functions between edge and centralized locations, allowing for local and global views of network operations, and enabling flexible deployment of network functions across different physical sites.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If control plane functions are centralized in a single location, then network management is simplified, but single points of failure increase and availability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The control plane function is divided into multiple distributed instances deployed across different network locations. Each instance handles a portion of the control plane traffic and can independently operate, eliminating the single point of failure while maintaining manageable network operations through standardized interfaces.
2Ease of operation
If control plane functions are centralized, then coordination is easier, but latency increases due to distance from edge locations
Solution Approach 1:
Control plane functions are deployed with varying degrees of centralization based on local requirements. Edge locations receive appropriate levels of control plane functionality to handle local traffic with low latency, while more complex coordination tasks are handled by centralized instances, optimizing both response time and coordination efficiency.
3Reliability
If control plane functions are distributed across multiple locations, then availability improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A standardized set of interfaces and protocols is implemented across all distributed control plane instances, enabling them to perform multiple functions through common mechanisms. This universality reduces system complexity by providing consistent methods for configuration, monitoring, and management across the distributed architecture.
4Adaptability or versatility
If control plane functions are distributed, then flexibility in deployment improves, but orchestration difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control plane architecture implements dynamic orchestration capabilities that automatically adapt to changing network conditions and requirements. Control plane instances can be dynamically instantiated, scaled, and relocated based on traffic patterns and operational needs, with automated orchestration reducing the complexity of managing these dynamic changes.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments provide distributed control plane functions for radio-based networks. In one embodiment, control plane network traffic for a first functionality of a control plane network function in a radio-based network is routed to a first control plane component in an edge location of the radio-based network. Control plane network traffic for a second functionality of the control plane network function in the radio-based network is routed to a second control plane component in a centralized location of the radio-based network.