Hybrid Packet Forwarding with Unified Segment Lists Across Mixed Networks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In hybrid networks, obtaining a global optimal packet forwarding path is challenging due to the presence of network devices that do not support Segment Routing over IPv6 (SRv6), requiring segment-based path computation and complex configuration at splicing nodes.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses a hybrid segment list with different types of identifiers to program the forwarding path across multiple network types, including SRv6 and non-SRv6 networks, allowing for global optimal path planning and simplified configuration by encapsulating the segment list in packets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If segment-based path computation and segment-by-segment splicing are used for hybrid networks, then packet forwarding can be implemented across different network types, but global optimal path cannot be obtained and configuration at splicing node is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the hybrid network path into multiple segments, each identified by different types of identifiers (first-type for SRv6 network, second-type for non-SRv6 network). The segment list in the packet header contains these identifiers in sequence, allowing each network segment to be independently identified and processed according to its specific forwarding rules, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and configuration complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal packet forwarding mechanism that can handle both SRv6 and non-SRv6 networks using a unified segment list structure. The segment list can accommodate multiple types of identifiers (IPv6 addresses, MPLS labels, IPv4 addresses) in a single data structure, enabling one system to serve multiple network types without requiring separate configuration systems at splicing nodes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If segment-based path computation is used for hybrid networks, then packet forwarding across different network types is enabled, but global optimal path cannot be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary path computation by pre-establishing the complete segment list containing all identifiers for the entire hybrid path from source to destination. The ingress device computes the full path including both SRv6 and non-SRv6 segments before packet transmission, allowing global path optimization to be achieved in advance rather than through incremental segment-based computation.
3Extent of automation
If multiple types of identifiers are used in segment list for hybrid networks, then global optimal path planning is enabled, but packet forwarding complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service packet forwarding where each network device automatically identifies its own segment type from the segment list and applies the appropriate forwarding rules locally. SRv6 devices process first-type identifiers using SRv6 forwarding rules, while non-SRv6 devices process second-type identifiers using their native forwarding mechanisms, eliminating the need for complex centralized control and reducing forwarding processing complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A packet forwarding method, an apparatus, and a network system are provided. A segment routing device receives a first packet from a first network. A first packet header of the first packet includes a segment list. The segment list includes a plurality of sequentially arranged identifiers. Each of the plurality of identifiers is used to identify one network device or one link. The plurality of identifiers include a first-type identifier and a plurality of second-type identifiers. Network devices or links identified by the first-type identifier and the second-type identifier are respectively on the first network and a second network. A type of the first network is different from a type of the second network. The segment routing device encapsulates a second packet header for the first packet to form a second packet. The second packet header includes the plurality of second-type identifiers. The segment routing device sends the second packet to the second network. In this method, a packet forwarding path including a plurality of types of network devices is programmed in the segment list, to obtain a global optimal path, and avoid a complex network configuration at a splicing node.