Long-Lived DNS Query System for Service Information Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional DNS queries are 'one-shot' and do not allow for continuous updates, leading to stale information in dynamic networks where services frequently change, requiring clients to periodically poll name servers, which can impact network and server performance.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a long-lived query (LLQ) system at name servers that allows clients to request and maintain updated service information through a handshake process, including initial setup, gratuitous responses for changes, and refresh requests to extend lease life, thereby reducing the need for frequent polling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a client periodically polls the name server to maintain up-to-date service information, then the client can obtain updated service information, but the network and server performance deteriorates due to frequent polling requests
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the name server actively notifies clients of service changes through push notifications. When a service update occurs, the name server sends a notification to the client's registered address, eliminating the need for continuous polling and improving both information freshness and system performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces continuous periodic polling with event-driven notifications. Instead of the client periodically checking for updates, the system transitions to a model where updates are pushed only when changes occur, reducing network traffic and server load while maintaining information freshness
2Productivity
If a client uses a low polling rate to reduce network traffic, then network efficiency improves, but the client receives stale information
Solution Approach 1:
The name server maintains a feedback loop with clients by storing their notification addresses and actively pushing updates when services change. This eliminates the polling rate dilemma, as clients receive real-time notifications regardless of polling frequency, improving both network efficiency and information freshness
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-establishing notification channels with clients during the initial DNS query. The name server records client contact information and proactively prepares to push notifications when updates occur, ensuring clients receive fresh information without requiring frequent polling
3Loss of information
If a client uses a high polling rate to ensure up-to-date information, then service information freshness improves, but network traffic and server load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the name server actively notifies clients of service changes through push notifications. When a service update occurs, the name server sends a notification to the client's registered address, eliminating the need for continuous polling and improving both information freshness and system performance
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by having the name server automatically manage update notifications without client intervention. The name server monitors service changes and autonomously pushes updates to clients, eliminating the need for clients to continuously poll and reducing overall network traffic and server load
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that implements a long-lived query (LLQ) at a name server. During operation, the system receives an LLQ from a client at the name server, wherein the LLQ requests information related to one or more data items stored on the name server. In response to the LLQ, the system informs the client of updates to the one or more data items.