Location ID Assignment in Distributed Cluster Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assigning location identifiers to compute nodes in distributed computer cluster networks are manual, error-prone, and do not scale with large datacenters, leading to inefficiencies in resource utilization and application availability.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that automatically assigns location identifiers to compute nodes by receiving notification of attachment to a Top-of-Rack switch, retrieving node information from an inventory database, calculating a location ID, and communicating it to the node, using a location ID function module integrated with the switch, which can include modifying DHCP messages to include the location ID.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual methods are used for assigning location identifiers to compute nodes, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but scalability and operational efficiency deteriorate in large datacenters
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing compute nodes to automatically obtain location identifiers through DHCP messages without manual intervention. The location ID function module automatically calculates and assigns location identifiers based on node information, eliminating the need for manual configuration and significantly improving operational efficiency in large datacenters.
2Reliability
If manual assignment of location identifiers is used, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but error rates increase and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual configuration process with an automated electronic system. The location ID function module automatically calculates location identifiers based on compute node information retrieved from the inventory database, eliminating human errors associated with manual assignment while maintaining ease of operation through automated DHCP message integration.
3Productivity
If automated location ID assignment is implemented, then scalability and productivity improve, but system complexity and DHCP message modification requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the location identifier assignment function with the existing DHCP message processing infrastructure. The location ID function module integrates with DHCP messages to automatically include location identifiers during the standard DHCP handshake process, avoiding the need for separate complex assignment mechanisms and maintaining system scalability without excessive complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If location identifiers are not automatically assigned, then system simplicity is maintained, but application availability and service distribution efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically assigning location identifiers during the DHCP connection establishment phase, before applications need to be distributed or workloads assigned. This ensures that compute nodes are pre-configured with location information, enabling immediate and efficient application distribution and service allocation without requiring additional configuration steps.
Data Source
AI summary
An example method for assigning location identifiers (IDs) to nodes in a distributed computer cluster network environment is provided and includes receiving notification of attachment of a compute node to a Top-of-Rack (ToR) switch in the distributed computer cluster network environment, retrieving compute node information from an inventory database in the ToR switch, calculating a location ID of the compute node as a function of at least a portion of the compute node information, and communicating the location ID from the ToR switch to the compute node. The location ID indicates an Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model Layer 7 logical group associated with an OSI model Layer 1 physical location of the compute node in the distributed computer cluster network environment.