Generic API for Heterogeneous Network Processor Packet Classification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems for managing packet classification behavior in network processors are difficult to scale due to heterogeneity among network processors, requiring multiple APIs and leading to complex packet classification applications with high maintenance costs and challenges in incorporating new processors.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing generic application program interfaces (APIs) that communicate with packet classification applications in a network processor-independent manner while managing behavior in a network processor-specific way, allowing for simplified management and integration of heterogeneous network processors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple vendor-specific APIs are used to manage different network processors, then each network processor can be controlled specifically, but the packet classification application becomes complex and difficult to scale

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with different network processorsVSAvoidcomplexity of packet classification application

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a vendor-neutral API as an intermediary layer between the packet classification application and multiple vendor-specific network processors. This neutral API translates generic management commands into vendor-specific operations, allowing the application to interact with diverse hardware through a unified interface without directly implementing multiple vendor-specific APIs, thus reducing application complexity while maintaining broad compatibility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal packet classification application that can manage multiple types of network processors through a single vendor-neutral API. The neutral API is designed to provide universal functionality across different vendors and processor models, eliminating the need for separate application versions for each processor type and enabling the same application to serve multiple purposes across heterogeneous network infrastructure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If vendor-specific APIs are used for each network processor model, then precise control over packet classification behavior is achieved, but maintenance costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprecision of packet classification controlVSAvoidmaintenance cost of packet classification application

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The vendor-neutral API acts as a mediator that preserves precise control capabilities while reducing maintenance burden. It maps vendor-specific control operations to a standardized interface, allowing the system to maintain detailed control over packet classification behavior for each processor type without requiring the application to be maintained separately for each vendor, thus lowering overall maintenance costs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple vendor-specific APIs are integrated into the packet classification application, then existing network processors can be managed, but incorporating new processors becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesupport for existing network processorsVSAvoidspeed of incorporating new network processors

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The vendor-neutral API provides universal support for managing packet classification across different network processor vendors and models. When new processors are introduced, the neutral API can accommodate them through standardized interfaces without requiring fundamental changes to the packet classification application, enabling rapid integration of new hardware while maintaining support for existing processors

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS7720948B2Method and system of generically specifying packet classification behavior

Publication Date: 2010.05.18 X CORP

AI summary

A method and system for controlling packet classification behavior of a plurality of heterogeneous network processors in a network is disclosed. The network also includes at least one host processor that utilizes at least one packet classification application. The method and system include providing a plurality of generic application program interfaces (APIs). The generic APIs communicate with the packet classification application(s) and the heterogeneous network processors. The generic APIs communicate with the packet classification application(s) in the host processor(s) in a network processor independent manner, but manage the packet classification behavior of the heterogeneous network processors in a network processor specific manner. Thus, the generic APIs allow the packet classification application(s) to be network processor independent and to manage the packet classification behavior of the heterogeneous network processors in the network processor specific manner.