Dynamic Forwarder Selection via Performance Scores
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Solution Overview
Problem
In networks utilizing Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs), devices within one VLAN cannot discover services or devices on another VLAN due to limitations in link-local multicast protocols like mDNS, leading to inefficient forwarder selection and potential network performance degradation.
Innovation Solution
A method for dynamically selecting a network device with high performance to act as a forwarder by computing and broadcasting performance scores, allowing devices to adjust their operational modes based on received scores, ensuring efficient mDNS packet forwarding and reducing network flooding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a network device with the largest MAC address is selected as forwarder, then the forwarder selection is simple and deterministic, but the network performance may degrade over time and the selected device may not be the most efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the selection criterion from a static parameter (MAC address) to a dynamic parameter (performance score) that reflects current network conditions and device capabilities. Network devices compute performance scores based on metrics such as available processing power, device score, stability, and balance value, allowing the forwarder selection to adapt to changing network conditions and maintain optimal performance.
2Loss of time
If a network device is selected as forwarder without performance evaluation, then the selection process is fast and simple, but the device may become overloaded and exhibit poor performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having network devices compute and broadcast their performance scores before forwarder selection occurs. This allows the selection process to be based on pre-evaluated performance data rather than requiring real-time assessment, thus maintaining fast selection while ensuring reliable choice of capable devices. The performance scores are computed based on available processing power, device score, stability, and balance value.
3Reliability
If multiple network devices forward mDNS packets, then service discovery coverage is improved, but network flooding occurs and performance degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the forwarder function from all network devices and concentrates it in a single selected device (or limited number of devices). Instead of every device forwarding mDNS packets, only the device(s) with the highest performance score(s) perform forwarding, while other devices drop mDNS packets. This eliminates network flooding while maintaining service discovery coverage through the centralized forwarder.
4Reliability
If a backup device is selected in advance, then failover capability is improved, but the backup device may also exhibit poor performance when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the forwarder and backup forwarder selection dynamic rather than static. Network devices continuously compute performance scores and can transition between roles based on current performance conditions. When the primary forwarder fails or performance degrades, the backup forwarder (selected based on current performance scores) takes over, ensuring both availability and performance. The system adapts to changing conditions in real-time.
Data Source
AI summary
Examples described herein relate to a selection of a network device in a network installation for a forwarder operation. Selection may include computing a performance score based on a set of performance parameters. Broadcasting the computed performance score to other network devices. Receiving performance scores from the other network devices. Comparing the received performance scores with the computed performance score. Continuing in the forwarder mode based on a determination that the received performance scores are less than its computed performance score. Receiving multicast Domain Name Service (mDNS) packets from one or more client devices. Sending the received mDNS packets to a central service.