Edge Synchronization Mesh Routing for WAN-Independent VPN Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional VPN services disrupt operations when devices lose direct WAN connectivity, particularly for mobile devices that intermittently disconnect from wide area networks.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a mesh network with dynamic routing tables that enable edge synchronization, allowing devices to maintain VPN functionality even when not directly connected to a WAN through peer-to-peer connections and utilizing conflict-free replicated data types (CRDTs) for consistent routing table updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional VPN services are used requiring direct WAN connection, then VPN functionality is provided, but VPN connectivity is lost when direct WAN connection is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces mesh network nodes as intermediary devices that relay VPN traffic between devices without direct WAN connection and VPN servers. These intermediary nodes forward encrypted packets through the mesh network, enabling VPN functionality to persist even when direct WAN connectivity is lost. The intermediary nodes maintain routing tables and perform packet forwarding to preserve VPN connectivity through indirect paths.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mesh network with dynamic routing tables is implemented, then VPN functionality is maintained without direct WAN connection, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic routing tables that automatically update as mesh network nodes are added or removed. The routing tables adapt in real-time to changing network conditions, node availability, and connectivity states. This dynamic behavior allows the system to maintain VPN functionality despite network changes without requiring manual reconfiguration, thereby managing complexity through automation rather than static configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where mesh network nodes continuously monitor network conditions, node presence, and packet delivery success. This feedback information is used to dynamically update routing tables and adjust packet forwarding paths. The feedback loop enables the system to self-correct and maintain optimal VPN connectivity automatically, reducing the need for complex manual intervention.
3Ease of operation
If devices move about in various settings, then operational flexibility is improved, but WAN connectivity stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the VPN connectivity requirement into two independent components: the mesh network layer for local device-to-device communication and the VPN encryption layer for secure data transmission. This segmentation allows devices to maintain VPN functionality through the mesh network layer even when WAN connectivity at the physical layer is unstable or lost due to device movement. Each segment operates independently, so instability in one does not necessarily compromise the other.
Data Source
AI summary
An edge synchronization platform that facilitates mesh network routing via dynamic routing tables is disclosed. A node in the mesh network obtains a network communication. The node performs a wrapping operation on the network communication to generate a wrapped data packet. The wrapped data packet includes a destination indicator. The node identifies a recipient node for the wrapped data packet using a dynamic routing table. The node then sends the wrapped data packet to the recipient node.