Layer-2 Data Center Interconnection via Unicast Tunneling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data center interconnection methods rely on multicast capabilities of the core network, which can limit layer-2 interconnection between data centers if the core network does not support multicast, preventing seamless communication and data transmission.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where data centers establish direct layer-2 tunnels for communication, using edge devices to register with a neighbor server, generate virtual bridge ports, and configure tunnel encapsulation entries to enable data transmission without relying on multicast capabilities, allowing for automatic detection and interconnection of data centers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data centers use existing interconnection methods relying on multicast capabilities, then layer-2 interconnection can be achieved in networks with multicast support, but layer-2 interconnection fails or is limited when the core network does not support multicast
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a unicast-based tunneling mechanism as an intermediary to replace multicast functionality. Edge devices establish unicast tunnels through the core network to transport layer-2 frames between data centers, allowing layer-2 interconnection without requiring multicast support in the core network
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the transport protocol parameter from multicast to unicast. By encapsulating layer-2 frames in unicast IP packets with specific protocol types, the system adapts to networks without multicast capability while maintaining layer-2 interconnection functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If data centers establish direct layer-2 tunnels without multicast, then adaptability to all network types is improved, but device complexity increases due to tunnel establishment and management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic tunnel establishment where edge devices autonomously discover remote data centers and configure tunnel parameters without manual intervention. The system self-manages the tunnel lifecycle including establishment, maintenance, and teardown based on data center availability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates dynamic tunnel configurations that automatically adapt to network conditions and data center availability. Tunnels are established and torn down dynamically based on whether remote data centers are available, eliminating the need for static pre-configuration
3Manufacturing precision
If manual tunnel configuration is used, then control over tunnel parameters is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to manual setup requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where edge devices monitor remote data center availability and automatically adjust tunnel configurations based on this feedback. The system continuously exchanges availability information and dynamically configures tunnels in response to changing network conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A method for constructing a network enabling layer-2 interconnection of data centers includes: a current data center registers at a neighbor server when the current data center gets online, obtains information of all registered data centers, generates a virtual bridge port for each registered data center; after the current data center comes online, the current data center obtains information of all newly registered data centers according to a pre-set rule, generates a virtual bridge port for each newly registered data center; establishes a tunnel to each registered data center by using the virtual bridge port corresponding to the registered data center, and transmit data via the tunnel.