MTR-IPFRR SDN Controller Fast Reroute Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network architectures struggle with dynamic adaptation and efficient resource utilization due to the complexity of traditional communication networks, which are not well-suited for rapid changes in computer usage scenarios, and lack effective failure recovery mechanisms in software-defined networks (SDNs).
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multi-topology routing based IP fast re-route (MTR-IPFRR) in software-defined networks, which proactively computes alternate paths using virtual topologies to enable fast and automatic failure recovery without manual operator intervention, balancing link loads and simplifying network management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional communication networks are used with individual configuration of each hardware component, then network control and data forwarding can be performed, but dynamic adaptation to changing network conditions is difficult and resource utilization is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into control plane and forwarding plane, with SDN controllers managing multiple forwarding devices. This separation allows centralized dynamic reconfiguration without individually configuring each hardware component, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The SDN controller acts as an intermediary between network policies and forwarding devices. It receives high-level policy instructions and automatically translates them into device-specific configurations, enabling dynamic adaptation while simplifying the overall system architecture.
2Reliability
If manual configuration and recovery procedures are used in SDN, then failure protection can be implemented, but recovery time is extended and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-computes alternate paths and configures backup forwarding rules before failures occur. When a failure is detected, the SDN controller immediately activates pre-prepared recovery paths, eliminating the time-consuming computation and configuration steps that would otherwise be performed manually after failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automated failure detection and recovery mechanisms where the SDN controller monitors network health, detects failures, and triggers recovery procedures without manual intervention. This self-service capability both protects against failures and minimizes recovery time.
3Extent of automation
If existing failure recovery techniques are deployed, then some level of protection is achieved, but they are not easily extensible to balance link loads during recovery and require operator intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The SDN controller implements a universal recovery mechanism that simultaneously provides failure protection, load balancing, and policy enforcement. The same centralized control architecture that enables automation also allows dynamic adjustment of link loads during recovery by computing optimal alternate paths based on current network conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A software defined networking (SDN) controller and methods for protecting against failure of a network element in a forwarding plane are provided. A multi-topology routing based IP fast re-route (MTR-IPFRR) process is configured to: if a new traffic flow is detected in the forwarding plane, determine a primary path for relaying network traffic to a destination node using primary forwarding tables; for each network element along the primary path, determine and associate a virtual topology (VT) which protects the network element from relaying network traffic; determine a protecting path for each protected network element along the primary path using an associated VT; and program each node along the primary path to be switchable to a protecting path associated with an adjacent network element to reroute network traffic from an anticipated failed network element.