Intelligent Network Interface Non-Intrusive Performance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for network performance measurement in private and public networks are costly, require separate power sources, and often disrupt normal network traffic, with incompatible resident test modes across different network nodes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of intelligent network interfaces (INIs) that exchange non-intrusive measurement test messages and reporting messages within existing communication networks, using self-contained devices that draw power from network access ports and operate without modifying or interrupting normal network operations, allowing for accurate performance measurement without suspending normal network traffic.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If standalone testing nodes are used for network performance measurement, then measurement capability is provided, but cost increases and separate power sources are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the network interface functionality with the performance measurement functionality into a single integrated device. The network interface card includes both data communication capabilities and test message generation/reception capabilities, eliminating the need for separate standalone testing nodes and their associated power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The network interface is designed to perform multiple functions: normal data communication and performance measurement. The same physical interface and processing resources are used for both production traffic and test messages, making the device universal and eliminating the need for dedicated measurement infrastructure.
2Measurement precision
If resident test mode is enabled in network nodes, then performance measurement is enabled, but normal network traffic must be suspended
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous operation of both normal network traffic and performance measurement simultaneously. Test messages are generated and processed in parallel with production data traffic, ensuring that measurement activities do not interrupt or suspend normal network operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments test message processing from production data processing by using separate message queues and processing threads within the network interface. This allows test messages and production traffic to be handled independently and simultaneously without interfering with each other.
3Measurement precision
If conventional measurement methods are used, then performance data is collected, but network operations are disrupted and compatibility issues arise across different manufacturers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a standardized test message format and processing protocol that is consistent across network interfaces from different manufacturers. This homogeneous approach ensures compatibility and interoperability, allowing performance measurement across heterogeneous network infrastructure without manufacturer-specific issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses standardized protocol layers and intermediate processing layers that mediate between different manufacturer-specific implementations. This allows diverse network nodes to communicate and exchange measurement data using a common interface, resolving compatibility issues.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for performing non-intrusive network layer performance measurement in communication networks are disclosed. An example method to measure network layer performance between existing network nodes disclosed herein comprises coupling a first intelligent network interface (INI) to an available access port of a first existing network node providing access to a network, wherein the first INI obtains power and input information only from the access port after being coupled thereto, and exchanging test messages between the first INI and a second INI coupled to a second existing network node during normal operation of the first and second existing network nodes to measure network layer performance, wherein the test messages originate in the first INI and are routed through the first and second existing network nodes using a first network layer address associated with the first INI and a second network layer address associated with the second INI.