IOAM Packet Signaling for Intermediate Network Performance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network performance measurement technologies struggle to comprehensively measure network performance across large-scale networks, lacking flexibility and comprehensive data collection capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The method involves sending active measurement protocol packets with measurement indication information to trigger intermediate devices on the network path to measure performance, using segment identifiers and IOAM headers to indicate measurement devices, allowing for comprehensive network performance data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If only end devices measure network performance, then measurement system is simple, but measurement coverage is insufficient for large-scale networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the network measurement function into segments by enabling intermediate devices to perform measurements. The measurement system is segmented across multiple network devices (end devices and intermediate devices) rather than concentrated at endpoints only. This is achieved through embedding measurement indication information in packet headers that intermediate devices can recognize and act upon, thereby expanding measurement coverage without requiring a completely new centralized system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces measurement indication information as an intermediary mechanism that enables intermediate devices to participate in measurements. This intermediary element (measurement indication information embedded in packet headers) acts as a mediator between end devices and intermediate devices, allowing intermediate devices to be triggered to perform measurements without requiring complex pre-configuration or dedicated measurement infrastructure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If measurement indication information is embedded in packet headers, then measurement flexibility improves, but packet processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the packet header universal by embedding measurement indication information that serves multiple functions: routing guidance and measurement triggering. The same header structure is used for both forwarding packets through the network and indicating which intermediate devices should perform measurements. This multi-functionality approach allows the packet processing mechanism to handle both routing and measurement activation without requiring separate dedicated signaling protocols.
3Loss of information
If intermediate devices measure network performance, then data collection comprehensiveness improves, but information processing load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by enabling measurement capabilities selectively at intermediate devices based on local conditions. Not all intermediate devices are required to perform measurements - only those that receive packets with measurement indication information and have the necessary capabilities. This localized approach allows comprehensive data collection from strategic points in the network without requiring every intermediate device to process and generate measurements, thereby reducing overall processing energy consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A network performance measurement method includes a first network device that sends a first active measurement protocol packet to a second network device, where the first active measurement protocol packet includes measurement indication information, where the measurement indication information indicates a measurement device on a forward path to measure network performance. The forward path is a forwarding path of the first active measurement protocol packet, and the first network device and the second network device are two ends of the forward path, and the measurement device on the forward path includes at least one intermediate device on the forward path. The intermediate device measures network performance of the forward path.