Edge Database for Network Data Plane Attribute Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network data plane management systems are limited by the use of pre-programmed ASICs and key value stores, which cannot effectively handle complex attributes and extensions needed for advanced network management.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an edge database with a multi-dimensional data store that defines a network data model, allowing for the management of complex network attributes and attributes extensions, and enabling dynamic attribute prioritization and re-factorization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pre-programmed ASICs are used for network data plane management, then device complexity is reduced and reliability is improved, but adaptability and ability to handle complex attributes are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an edge database as an intermediary component between the network data plane and control plane. This edge database serves as a mediator that stores and manages complex network attributes, allowing the data plane to access sophisticated attribute information without requiring complex processing logic within the data plane itself. The edge database acts as the intermediary that bridges the gap between simple data plane operations and complex attribute management requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If key value stores are used for attribute management, then implementation is simple, but ability to handle complex attributes and extensions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional key-value store structures to a multi-dimensional data model organized around network entities (devices, services, applications). This dimensional transformation allows attributes to be organized hierarchically and relationally, enabling complex attribute relationships and extensions while maintaining structured access patterns. The multi-dimensional organization provides both simplicity in access and complexity in representation.
3Productivity
If standard SDN approaches are used, then flexibility is improved, but performance and scalability are limited due to centralized control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by placing edge databases at distributed network locations rather than relying on centralized control. Each edge database locally stores and manages attributes relevant to its specific network segment, enabling fast local access and processing while maintaining flexibility through distributed attribute management. This localizes the intelligence and adaptability needed for complex attribute handling without sacrificing processing performance.
Data Source
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AI summary
Novel tools and techniques for network data plane management are provided. A system includes a host machine that includes a database, processor, and non-transitory computer readable media comprising instructions executable by the processor to obtain, via the database, a network configuration, spawn a container according to the network configuration, wherein the container is configured, based on the network configuration, to be coupled to a network overlay via a network interface, receive, via the network interface, incoming data associated with the container, the incoming data having attached one or more attached network data attributes, and identify, via the database, the attached one or more network data attributes attached to the incoming data as one or more network data attributes of the network data model.