Distributed Switch Relay Settings for FCoE Packet Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) networks, there are issues with packet routing inefficiencies, leading to wasteful paths and concentrated processing loads due to inadequate research on optimizing path settings and load distribution across switches.
Innovation Solution
An information processing system with multiple switches connected in a tree form, where each switch manages identifier assignments and relays packets based on logical links, distributing relay settings across switches to prevent concentrated loads and optimize packet routing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a specific device (e.g., FCF) makes relay settings for each switch to avoid relaying packets through itself, then concentrated processing load occurs in that device, but if relay settings are not optimized, then wasteful packet paths occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized relay setting function into distributed switch-level operations. Each switch independently determines relay settings based on domain information and packet destinations, eliminating the need for a single device (FCF) to manage all relay configurations. This segmentation distributes processing load across multiple switches while optimizing packet paths.
Solution Approach 2:
Switches perform self-service by autonomously determining relay settings without requiring centralized configuration from the FCF. Each switch uses its own domain information and routing logic to make relay decisions, reducing the processing burden on any single device while maintaining efficient packet routing.
2Productivity
If relay settings are made at a centralized device, then path optimization is achieved, but processing load concentrates on that device
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized relay setting function is segmented and distributed to individual switches. Each switch independently performs relay setting operations using its own domain information, which divides the processing load across multiple devices rather than concentrating it at a single centralized point.
Solution Approach 2:
Each switch performs relay settings locally based on its own domain information and packet destination, rather than relying on centralized configuration. This local quality approach allows each switch to optimize routing independently, distributing processing power requirements while maintaining path optimization.
Data Source
AI summary
A disclosed system includes plural switches, a node, and a management apparatus. The node includes: a transmitter that transmits an assignment request whose destination is the management apparatus. The management apparatus includes: a determination unit that determines whether an identifier can be assigned to the node, based on the assignment request; and a transmitter that transmits a response including an identifier assigned to the node. And a first switch that is a switch of the plural switches and relays the assignment request and the response includes: a making unit that makes settings for relaying a packet whose destination is the node; and a transmitter that transmits, to other switches belonging to a domain to which the first switch belongs, a setting request including the information on the logical link that received the assignment request and the identifier included in the response.