Automated LI ADMF Address Configuration in Cloud VNFs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ETSI standards do not fully support the deployment of virtualized network functions (VNFs) in cloud compute environments with one-click configuration and automatic scaling, as LI ADMF addresses need to be manually configured on Network Elements (NEs).
Innovation Solution
A communication device comprising a Lawful Interception Administration Function (LI ADMF) sends requests to a Network Element (NE) to add or modify destination information for messages sent over an X1 interface, allowing the NE to automatically manage LI ADMF addresses without manual configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual configuration of LI ADMF addresses on Network Elements is used, then deployment flexibility is maintained, but operational expenses and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The Network Element automatically discovers and configures LI ADMF addresses through self-service mechanisms. The NE receives indication information from the MANO platform about VNF instances, automatically extracts LI ADMF address information, and configures itself without manual intervention. This eliminates the contradiction by enabling both rapid deployment and automatic scaling through automated self-configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The MANO platform acts as an intermediary between the virtualization environment and the Network Element. It provides indication information containing LI ADMF address details to the NE, enabling automated configuration. This intermediary mechanism resolves the contradiction by automating the configuration process while maintaining system flexibility.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual configuration of LI ADMF addresses is performed, then configuration accuracy can be controlled, but time consumption and deployment speed decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The LI ADMF address information is prepared in advance as indication information from the MANO platform before the Network Element needs it. This preliminary preparation enables the NE to quickly acquire accurate configuration data without manual intervention, resolving the time-accuracy contradiction by having information ready beforehand.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the NE automatically receives and processes indication information about VNF instances and their associated LI ADMF addresses. This automated feedback loop ensures configuration accuracy while eliminating manual configuration time, as the NE continuously receives updated information from the MANO platform.
3Productivity
If automated deployment of VNFs is implemented, then productivity increases, but manual configuration requirements create bottlenecks
Solution Approach 1:
The Network Element performs self-service by automatically receiving indication information from the MANO platform and configuring its own LI ADMF address settings. This eliminates manual configuration bottlenecks while maintaining high deployment efficiency, as the automated self-configuration process scales with VNF deployment without requiring additional manual operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The indication information mechanism provides universal configuration capability across different VNF instances and Network Elements. The MANO platform can automatically provide LI ADMF address information to any NE deploying VNFs, creating a scalable universal solution that maintains productivity while eliminating manual configuration requirements across the entire system.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to methods, communication devices, computer programs and computer program products related to Lawful Interception, LI. An LI, Administration Function, ADMF, sends a request over an X1 interface to a Network Element, NE, that is configured to perform an action associated with an LI, to add information associated with a destination or modify information of an existing destination for a message to be sent from the NE to the LI ADMF over the X1 interface. The NE receives the request, adds information associated with a destination or modifies information of an existing destination, and sends a response to the LI ADMF over the X1 interface, wherein the response comprises a result associated with the request.