Hierarchical Software Distribution With Secure Tiered P2P Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing software deployment methods, such as content distribution networks (CDNs) and peer-to-peer (P2P) protocols, face challenges in efficiently, securely, and consistently distributing software updates across networks due to bottlenecks, bandwidth issues, security concerns, and lack of authorization control.
Innovation Solution
A hierarchical network (PDN) that leverages peer-to-peer downloading, managed by a tracker device, which assigns devices to groups and tiers, authorizes access, and uses certificates/tokens for secure communication, enabling efficient and secure distribution of software updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a content distribution network (CDN) is used to deploy software to multiple client devices, then download speed and availability are improved, but network congestion and single points of failure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the network into a hierarchical structure with multiple tiers (first tier, second tier, third tier devices) and divides software into multiple data bundles that can be distributed through different paths. This segmentation eliminates single points of failure by creating redundant distribution paths while maintaining fast download speeds through parallel bundle retrieval.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hierarchical dimension to the traditional flat CDN architecture, organizing devices across multiple levels (first tier root devices, second tier child devices, third tier leaf devices). This dimensional organization enables more efficient load distribution and reduces congestion by routing requests through appropriate hierarchical levels.
2Loss of energy
If a peer-to-peer protocol is used to distribute software, then network bandwidth utilization is improved, but security and authorization control deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces root devices at the first tier as intermediaries between the software source and the rest of the network. These root devices receive software bundles from authorized sources and distribute them to second tier devices, which then share with third tier devices. This intermediary structure maintains P2P bandwidth efficiency while providing centralized security control and authorization.
Solution Approach 2:
The hierarchical segmentation creates distinct roles: first tier devices handle secure receipt and initial distribution, while lower tiers handle peer-to-peer sharing. This segmentation allows security mechanisms to be applied at critical points without compromising the overall P2P efficiency.
3Productivity
If software is deployed to multiple locations simultaneously, then deployment speed is improved, but network congestion and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments devices into hierarchical tiers and groups them accordingly. First tier devices receive bundles directly from the source, second tier devices receive from first tier, and third tier devices receive from second tier. This segmentation enables parallel deployment across multiple locations while managing network resources through structured propagation.
Solution Approach 2:
Root devices at the first tier perform preliminary actions by receiving and validating software bundles before distributing them to lower tiers. This preliminary processing at the top of the hierarchy enables simultaneous deployment throughout the network while preventing resource exhaustion at any single point.
4Device complexity
If a fixed topology CDN is used, then infrastructure is simplified, but adaptability to network changes and failure recovery deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a dynamic hierarchical topology where devices can be assigned to different tiers based on their capabilities and network conditions. The structure adapts to network changes through dynamic reassignment and maintains simplicity through the clear hierarchical organization. When failures occur, the system can dynamically reroute bundles through alternative paths in the hierarchy.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides systems, methods, and computer readable storage devices for software distribution across a hierarchical network. A method includes sending, by a first node device, a registration request message to a second node device of a first distribution group of the hierarchical network. The registration request message indicates a request for the first node device to join the hierarchical network. The method further includes receiving, by the first node device, a registration response message from the second node device. The registration response message indicates an assignment of the first node device to a second distribution group corresponding to a tier that is below a tier that includes the first distribution group. The first node device may be authorized to perform peer-to-peer (P2P) communications to receive at least a portion of one or more files from node devices in the second distribution group or the second node device.