Dynamic Secure Packet Block Sizing for CDN Performance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Content delivery networks (CDNs) face challenges in efficiently handling secure data transfers over SSL/TLS protocols, often resulting in delayed acknowledgments due to mismatched transmission control protocol (TCP) window sizes and secure layer protocol block sizes, leading to network overload and slow response times during high demand periods.
Innovation Solution
A method is implemented where a content delivery node determines the TCP window size and scales the secure layer protocol block size to match the TCP window size, ensuring efficient data transfer by aligning SSL/TLS packet sizes with TCP window boundaries, using techniques such as padding or adjusting block sizes via application-level parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the secure layer protocol block size is kept fixed at default values, then protocol implementation is simpler, but TCP window size mismatches cause delayed acknowledgments and reduced transfer efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of secure layer protocol block sizes by scaling them according to TCP window sizes. The system continuously monitors TCP window size changes and automatically adjusts the corresponding secure layer block sizes to maintain optimal alignment, transforming a static configuration into a dynamic adaptive system that responds to changing network conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of secure layer protocol block size from a fixed default value to a scaled value that is proportional to the TCP window size. This parameter transformation allows the secure layer to adapt its block sizes based on the actual TCP window size, improving data transfer efficiency by preventing acknowledgment delays while maintaining protocol compatibility
2Speed
If the secure layer protocol block size is scaled to match TCP window size, then acknowledgment delays are reduced and transfer speed improves, but additional processing and coordination overhead is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system monitors TCP window size changes and uses this information to adjust secure layer protocol block sizes. The TCP window size updates provide feedback that triggers corresponding adjustments in the secure layer configuration, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes transfer speed while managing coordination overhead through event-driven updates
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary scaling of secure layer block sizes based on anticipated or current TCP window sizes before actual data transfer occurs. By pre-configuring the block sizes to match expected TCP window parameters, the system avoids runtime delays and reduces the need for complex real-time coordination during active data transfer
3Productivity
If fixed block sizes are used in secure layer protocol, then packet processing is faster, but mismatched sizes cause network overload during high demand periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static fixed block size configuration into a dynamic system that adapts to varying network conditions. During high demand periods, the system automatically scales secure layer block sizes to match reduced TCP window sizes, preventing network overload while maintaining reliable secure communication. This dynamic adaptation ensures both productivity and reliability across varying load conditions
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are methods, systems, and software for handling secure transport of data between end users and content serving devices. In one example, a method of operating a content server includes identifying a content request from an end user device. The method further includes, responsive to the user request, determining a transmission control protocol window size and a secure layer protocol block size. The method also provides scaling the secure layer protocol block size to match the transmission control protocol window size, and transferring secure layer protocol packets to the end user device using the scaled secure layer protocol block size.