Dynamic Layer-2 Protocol Parameter Adjustment for Network Link Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Layer-2 protocols in communications networks are static and cannot dynamically adjust to optimize link performance for different types of traffic flows, leading to issues such as fragmentation and latency, especially when handling time-sensitive and large data packets.
Innovation Solution
A method and controller that dynamically compute and update Layer-2 protocol parameters based on evolving network performance, identifying underperforming links and adjusting parameters like MTU, interleaving policy, and QoS to optimize link performance for various traffic flows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the MTU size is increased to reduce fragmentation and latency for large data packets, then the transmission efficiency for large packets is improved, but small size short burst packets are blocked and time-sensitive traffic performance degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic MTU adjustment by allowing the MTU size to change based on current network conditions and traffic types. The system monitors link performance and automatically adjusts the MTU parameter in real-time, transitioning from a static to a dynamic configuration that adapts to varying traffic demands, thereby resolving the contradiction between optimizing for large packets and maintaining responsiveness for small time-sensitive packets
Solution Approach 2:
The core solution involves changing the MTU parameter dynamically based on traffic characteristics and network conditions. The system adjusts this key protocol parameter to match the current traffic mix, using larger MTU values for bulk data transmission and smaller values for time-sensitive applications, thus resolving the performance trade-off through parameter adaptation
2Loss of time
If the MTU size is reduced to accommodate small packets and prevent blocking, then time-sensitive small packet transmission is improved, but network performance degrades due to a large number of concatenated frames
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts MTU size based on real-time network conditions and traffic composition. When small time-sensitive packets are detected, the MTU is reduced to prevent blocking and maintain low latency. When bulk data transmission is predominant, the MTU is increased to reduce frame concatenation overhead, thus adaptively optimizing performance for different traffic scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the MTU parameter dynamically according to traffic patterns and network conditions. By monitoring the type and volume of traffic, the system adjusts the MTU value to achieve optimal performance, preventing both the blocking of small packets and the excessive frame concatenation that would degrade overall network throughput
3Reliability
If static fragmentation and interleaving is applied to ensure QoS for time-sensitive traffic, then priority traffic handling is improved, but the system cannot adapt as traffic flows and network performance change over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism that continuously monitors network performance metrics, traffic patterns, and link conditions. Based on this feedback, the system dynamically adjusts Layer-2 protocol parameters including MTU size, interleaving depth, and QoS policies, enabling the network to adapt to changing conditions while maintaining QoS guarantees for time-sensitive traffic
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static QoS configuration to dynamic adaptation by continuously monitoring network conditions and adjusting protocol parameters in real-time. The QoS mechanisms remain reliable while gaining adaptability through automated parameter adjustment based on actual traffic flows and performance measurements
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes: receiving, by a controller of a layer-2 network abstraction comprising a plurality of nodes interconnected by links, information defining at least a performance of each link; identifying, by the controller, at least one underperforming link of the network based on the received information; and for each identified under-performing link of the network: computing, by the controller, at least one updated layer-2 protocol parameter for at least one traffic flow of the under-performing link based on the information; and sending, by the controller, the at least one updated layer-2 protocol parameter to at least one node of the under-performing link.