Ethernet Service Bandwidth Configuration via Service Class Mapping

The patent segments bandwidth management by introducing service class classification. Instead of managing all Ethernet services uniformly, the system divides services into different classes (e.g., real-time, non-real-time, broadcast, multicast) based on their characteristics. This segmentation enables precise bandwidth allocation for each service type while maintaining overall configuration manageability through hierarchical structure.

The patent applies local quality by assigning different bandwidth management policies to different service classes. Each service class receives customized bandwidth parameters (committed information rate, committed burst size, excess information rate, excess burst size) tailored to its specific requirements. This allows the system to optimize bandwidth allocation locally for each service type rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.

The patent introduces universal templates (ServiceClassProfile and BandwidthProfile) that can be reused across multiple services. Service classes are defined with standardized attribute structures, and bandwidth specifications are captured in reusable profiles. This universality reduces complexity by avoiding redundant definitions while maintaining precise control over each service class's bandwidth characteristics.

The patent implements preliminary action by pre-defining service class profiles and bandwidth specifications before actual service deployment. The mapping relationships between service classes and bandwidth profiles are established in advance, creating a standardized framework that simplifies subsequent bandwidth configuration. This preliminary structuring reduces the complexity of real-time bandwidth management decisions.