Gateway-Assisted QUIC Transport for Time-Varying Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Time-varying networks, such as satellite networks, pose challenges for broadband Internet access due to high edge-to-edge propagation delay and the non-applicability of Performance Enhancement Proxies (PEPs) with QUIC, leading to inefficient data transport and potential underutilization of path capacity, especially for short-lived flows.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method using gateway devices to establish end-to-end encrypted transport connections over time-varying networks, with gateways acting as packet handlers and forwarders to support secure name resolution, packet recovery, and congestion control, avoiding the need for PEPs and ensuring edge-to-edge encryption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If QUIC protocol is used for end-to-end encrypted transport, then security and privacy are improved, but middlebox assistance (PEPs) becomes non-applicable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces gateway devices as intermediaries that operate at the network layer to provide performance enhancement functions. These gateways act as mediators between the encrypted QUIC transport layer and the network infrastructure, enabling middlebox-like functionality without breaking end-to-end encryption. The gateways can perform packet inspection, routing decisions, and performance optimization while QUIC packets remain encrypted throughout the path.
2Productivity
If PEPs are used to mitigate high delay link performance, then data transport efficiency is improved, but end-to-end encryption is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network function into two distinct parts: gateway devices at the network layer that handle performance optimization and routing, and end-to-end encrypted QUIC connections at the transport layer that maintain security. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its function independently without compromising the other, enabling both encryption integrity and transport efficiency.
3Device complexity
If loss-based congestion control is used in high delay networks, then congestion management is simplified, but path capacity underutilization occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where gateway devices monitor network conditions, packet loss patterns, and congestion signals. This feedback information is used to dynamically adjust transmission rates and routing decisions. The feedback loop enables the system to respond to changing network conditions in real-time, improving path capacity utilization while maintaining manageable complexity through automated control algorithms.
4Reliability
If slow start behavior is implemented for congestion control, then congestion avoidance is improved, but connection setup latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having gateway devices pre-establish routing paths and pre-buffer resources before actual data transmission begins. The gateways perform preliminary network assessments and prepare transmission paths in advance, so when QUIC connections are established, the slow start phase can proceed more efficiently with pre-prepared routing information and buffered resources already in place.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a computer-implemented method for transporting data (40) between an end-user device (20) and a server device (24) for providing a network service via a time-varying network (12), the time-varying network (12) including a plurality of nodes (14) that are interconnected intermittently in time.