Dynamic Rendezvous Point Selection in IP Multicast Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The selection of a Rendezvous Point (RP) in IP multicast networks is often statically configured, leading to inefficient multicast traffic movement and network performance issues due to lack of consideration for the positioning of other devices in the network topology.
Innovation Solution
A method for dynamically selecting a rendezvous point in an IP multicast network by determining the OSI layers of source and host devices and synchronizing peer network devices to enable active-active configuration for load balancing and failover, using a cloud computing system to transmit messages and configure network devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a rendezvous point is statically configured in an IP multicast network, then the configuration is simple and easy to implement, but the multicast traffic movement becomes inefficient and network performance deteriorates due to lack of consideration for device positioning in network topology
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic rendezvous point selection by having network devices determine their OSI layer positions and automatically select an optimal rendezvous point based on topology analysis. The controller dynamically adjusts the rendezvous point selection according to current network conditions and device positions, transforming the static configuration into a dynamic adaptive system that optimizes multicast traffic efficiency while maintaining ease of operation through automated decision-making
Solution Approach 2:
The network devices perform self-configuration by automatically determining their own OSI layer positions and participating in the rendezvous point selection process without requiring manual intervention. The system enables devices to autonomously assess their network positions and contribute to the optimal rendezvous point determination, reducing configuration complexity while improving traffic efficiency
2Productivity
If peer network devices are virtualized to function as one virtual device, then resource utilization improves and network efficiency increases, but the reliability decreases because failure of one peer device affects the virtualized function
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements failover mechanisms that prepare backup rendezvous point selections in advance. When peer network devices are virtualized, the system pre-configures alternative rendezvous points so that if one peer device fails, traffic can immediately switch to the backup without interruption. This cushioning approach maintains high network efficiency through virtualization while protecting against single-point failures
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the operational state parameters of peer network devices based on their health status. When a peer device fails, the controller detects the failure and changes the state of the virtualized function from active to standby, activating the failover mechanism. This parameter change approach allows the system to maintain efficient resource utilization through virtualization while ensuring continuous availability through automated state transitions
Data Source
AI summary
Some examples relate to selection of a rendezvous point in an IP multicast network managing multicast group traffic. An example includes transmitting, from a controller in a cloud computing system, messages to a source device and a host device in an IP multicast-capable network, which may include two peer network devices that are virtualized to function as one virtual device. Based on the response to the messages, the controller may determine that the source device is present in OSI layer 3 and the host device is present in OSI layer 2. The controller may determine that the peer network are located downstream in relation to the determined layer of the source device. The controller may select a non-peer network device as a rendezvous point in the IP multicast-capable network. Further to the selection, the controller may synchronize an active-active configuration between the peer network devices.