Converged Interconnect Network Entropy via IPv6 Prefix Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Converged Interconnect Networks, routers lack sufficient information for optimal load balancing due to identical source and destination addresses in DEPI tunnels, leading to inefficient routing decisions.
Innovation Solution
Assigning a group of IP addresses, such as IPv6 prefixes, to Remote Physical Layer Devices (RPD) and Converged Cable Access Platform Core (CCAP-Core) devices, allowing them to use different source and destination addresses for data tunnels, thereby introducing entropy that enables more efficient load balancing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If identical source and destination addresses are used in DEPI tunnels, then routing simplicity is maintained, but load balancing efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the address space by assigning multiple IP addresses (specifically IPv6 prefixes) to each RPD-CCAP-Core pair. This segmentation allows routers to differentiate between multiple tunnels that previously had identical addresses, enabling load balancing across multiple paths while maintaining the simplicity of standard IP routing protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds an additional dimension to the routing decision space by introducing multiple IP addresses where previously only one address pair existed. This dimensional expansion provides routers with more parameters to work with for load balancing, transforming a single-dimension routing problem into a multi-dimensional one that can better utilize available network paths.
2Productivity
If multiple IP addresses are assigned to RPD and CCAP-Core devices, then load balancing capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the universality of IPv6 address space to serve multiple functions. The same set of IPv6 prefixes assigned to an RPD can be used across multiple CCAP-Core devices, and vice versa. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve load balancing without requiring unique address configurations for each device pair, thereby limiting the increase in complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the addressing parameter from traditional single IP address to IPv6 prefix notation. This parameter change allows for a more compact and manageable representation of multiple addresses, reducing the operational complexity despite the increased number of addresses. The prefix-based approach simplifies address assignment and management compared to individual address configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are provided for introducing entropy in a Converged Interconnect Network. For instance, a remote physical layer device (RPD) can receive a first plurality of Internet Protocol (IP) addresses that are assigned to the RPD. The RPD can receive, from a Converged Cable Access Platform Core (CCAP-Core) device, a first data packet having a first destination IP address selected from the first plurality of IP addresses. The RPD can receive, from the CCAP-Core device, a second data packet having a second destination IP address selected from the first plurality of IP addresses. In some examples, a difference between the first destination IP address and the second destination IP address can cause a router disposed between the CCAP-Core device and the RPD to select a first route for the first data packet and a second route for the second data packet.