Dynamic Service Level Tagging for Network Data Packets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network data packet tagging techniques are static and unable to effectively differentiate service levels for dynamic application requirements, leading to communication gaps between application knowledge and network management, resulting in suboptimal network infrastructure utilization.
Innovation Solution
A system that dynamically generates service level indicators based on identified objectives, allowing network devices to route data packets accordingly, using service level managers and policy engines to coordinate traffic management and adjust tags as needed for optimal service levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If static tagging techniques are used to differentiate service levels, then network infrastructure can provide differentiated service levels, but the system cannot adapt to dynamic application requirements and service level changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic service level tagging by allowing the service level indicator (SLI) values in data packets to be modified based on real-time application requirements. The system dynamically adjusts SLI values rather than using static pre-configured mappings, enabling the network to adapt to changing service level needs without requiring complex reconfiguration of network infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter values of service level indicators dynamically. Instead of fixed static mappings between application protocols and service levels, the patent allows parameter values in the SLI field to be modified based on current application needs, enabling flexible adaptation to different service level requirements while maintaining network infrastructure simplicity.
2Productivity
If detailed application knowledge is used to make traffic management decisions, then network utilization can be optimized from application perspective, but network service providers lack the capability to implement such fine-grained control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces service level indicators as an intermediary mechanism that bridges application knowledge and network control. The SLI field acts as a mediator that carries application-specific service level information through the network, allowing network devices to interpret and act on detailed application requirements without requiring direct complex interaction between applications and network infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where network devices can monitor actual service delivery and adjust traffic management decisions accordingly. This feedback loop allows the network to optimize utilization based on real-time conditions while maintaining ease of operation through automated adjustments rather than manual reconfiguration.
3Speed
If static service level objectives are tied to network port numbers or IP addresses, then network devices can implement service differentiation, but the system cannot respond to dynamic service level changes in real-time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables real-time response to service level changes by dynamically modifying SLI values in data packets as traffic flows. This dynamic approach allows the system to respond immediately to changing service requirements without the delays associated with static reconfiguration, while maintaining reliable service level commitments through consistent SLI enforcement across the network.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for dynamic tagging of network data based on service level objectives comprises one or more processors and memory coupled to the processors. The memory comprises program instructions executable by the processors to identify a service level objective associated with a particular task that comprises a transmission of data packets over a network on behalf of an application, where the network includes one or more devices (such as routers, switches, etc.) configured to provide different levels of service to data packets based at least in part on service level indicators included within the packets. The instructions are executable to dynamically generate service level indicators corresponding to the identified service level objectives for inclusion in the data packets of the task, and to transmit the packets including the service level indicators into the network.