Dynamic Transport Protocol Assignment in Packet Switched Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current packet transport networks face challenges in dynamically configuring optimal routing protocols across different path segments of an end-to-end path, as existing methods either lack flexibility or efficiency, leading to suboptimal network performance.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for dynamically assigning different transport protocols (source-based, path-based, and link-based) to path segments of an end-to-end path in packet switched networks, using forward information base (FIB) control signaling instructions to configure network nodes, based on their capabilities and the characteristics of the regions they traverse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single transport protocol is used across the entire end-to-end path, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but network performance is suboptimal and adaptability to different network regions is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The end-to-end path is segmented into multiple path segments, each capable of using different transport protocols. The controller divides the routing path into segments and assigns appropriate protocols to each segment based on network conditions, node capabilities, and traffic requirements, thereby achieving both simplified individual segment configuration and overall network adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
Different transport protocols are assigned to different path segments based on local network characteristics. The controller evaluates regional network conditions and assigns protocols locally to each segment, allowing optimal protocol selection for each region while maintaining overall path connectivity and performance
2Productivity
If different transport protocols are assigned to different path segments, then network performance is optimized and adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases and control signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
A controller acts as an intermediary between the management system and network nodes. The controller automatically performs protocol assignment to path segments based on network conditions and node capabilities, reducing manual configuration complexity while optimizing network performance through intelligent protocol selection
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes protocol parameters and assignments based on network conditions. The controller monitors network state and adjusts protocol assignments to path segments accordingly, enabling adaptive optimization of traffic flow efficiency while managing configuration complexity through automated parameter adjustment
3Ease of operation
If protocol assignment is done manually, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity is reduced and response to network changes is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The controller performs self-service by automatically assigning protocols to path segments based on network conditions and node capabilities. This eliminates manual configuration requirements while maintaining operational simplicity through automated decision-making, thereby improving network configuration efficiency and responsiveness
Data Source
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AI summary
It is possible to implement traffic engineering policies in a packet switched network by dynamically configuring different transport protocols to be used over different path segments of an end-to-end path. Specifically, a controller may communicate forward information base (FIB) control signaling instructions to network nodes along an end-to-end path. The FIB signaling instructions may configure network nodes on different path segments of the end-to-end path to route a traffic flow using different path transport protocols. For example, the FIB signaling instructions may assign a link-based transport protocol to a first path segment, and a path-based or source-based transport protocol to a second path segment. Alternatively, the controller may indirectly assign transport protocols to regions/path segments by classifying regions of a packet switched network as link-preferred regions, path-preferred regions, or no-preference regions.