IPv6 Data Packet Sending via Minimum MTU and PMTU Probing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In IPv6 networks, data packets are often discarded before the path maximum transmission unit (PMTU) is probed, leading to inefficiencies in data transmission as they exceed the maximum transmission unit (MTU) supported by network devices along the path.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that send data packets initially using the minimum MTU stipulated in the IPv6 protocol before probing the PMTU, ensuring the packet can pass through any MTU on the path, and subsequently adjust to the probed PMTU for efficient transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If data packets are sent according to a preconfigured MTU before PMTU probing, then the sending process is simple, but data packets are discarded by routers with smaller MTU values
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by sending data packets according to the minimum MTU stipulated in IPv6 protocol before the PMTU is probed. This preliminary measure ensures that packets can pass through any router on the path without being discarded, even though it may not be the optimal transmission size. After PMTU probing completes, the system transitions to using the probed PMTU for subsequent transmissions.
2Productivity
If data packets are sent according to a larger MTU, then transmission efficiency is higher, but packets are discarded when exceeding router MTU limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the MTU value dynamic rather than fixed. Before PMTU probing, the system uses the minimum MTU (1280 bytes) to ensure reliable delivery. After probing, the system dynamically adjusts to use the probed PMTU value for subsequent transmissions, optimizing transmission efficiency while maintaining reliability. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between using larger MTU for efficiency and avoiding packet discarding.
3Productivity
If PMTU probing is performed immediately, then optimal transmission size is found, but data packets are discarded during the probing process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a safe sending mode using minimum MTU before initiating PMTU probing. This preliminary measure prevents packet discarding during the probing process, as all packets sent before probing completes use a size guaranteed to fit through any router on the path. The probing process can then proceed without causing unnecessary packet loss.
4Reliability
If the minimum MTU is used before PMTU probing, then packet delivery reliability is ensured, but transmission efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static minimum MTU approach to a dynamic MTU selection based on PMTU probing results. Before probing, minimum MTU ensures reliable delivery. After probing, the system dynamically switches to using the probed PMTU value, which is typically larger than the minimum MTU, thereby improving transmission efficiency while maintaining the reliability guarantees established during the preliminary phase.
Data Source
AI summary
A data packet sending method includes: before a PMTU of a path is probed, sending a data packet according to a minimum MTU stipulated in the IPv6 protocol; and after the PMTU of the path is probed, sending a subsequent data packet on the path according to the probed PMTU of the path.