Multi-Domain Segment Routing Path Computation via SDN Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
In segment routing across multiple domains, existing path computation algorithms face complexity and inefficiency, especially when using anycast segment identifiers, leading to potential sub-optimal paths and increased calculation time in large networks.
Innovation Solution
A software-defined network (SDN) controller assigns segment identifiers to each domain and computes paths using a derived graph representation, reducing complexity and path size by advertising anycast domain segment identifiers through domain border routers, allowing for efficient routing across multiple domains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional path computation algorithms are used in multi-domain segment routing, then routing accuracy can be maintained, but computation complexity and calculation time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the multi-domain network into multiple individual domains, each with its own topology and segment identifiers. By segmenting the complex multi-domain routing problem into smaller single-domain problems, the computation complexity is reduced while maintaining routing accuracy through coordinated domain border routers
Solution Approach 2:
Domain border routers act as intermediaries between adjacent domains, advertising anycast domain segment identifiers that simplify path computation. These intermediaries enable routers to compute paths without needing complete knowledge of the entire multi-domain topology, reducing computational burden
2Manufacturing precision
If detailed path information is maintained for all domains, then routing optimality can be achieved, but path representation size increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple domain border routers advertising the same domain are merged into a single anycast domain segment identifier. This consolidation reduces the number of path segments that need to be tracked and represented, decreasing path representation size while preserving routing optimality through the anycast mechanism
3Adaptability or versatility
If anycast domain segment identifiers are advertised by all domain border routers, then routing flexibility and scalability improve, but information advertisement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anycast domain segment identifier serves multiple functions simultaneously: it enables flexible path computation, provides load balancing across domain border routers, and simplifies routing advertisements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms, actually decreasing overall system complexity despite the enhanced capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects described herein include a method for use with a software-defined network controller, as well as an associated computer program product and system. The method comprises assigning a segment identifier to an endpoint node within a destination domain of a plurality of domains. Adjacent domains of the plurality of domains are connected via a respective set of two or more domain border routers. The method further comprises assigning a respective segment identifier to each domain. Each domain border router advertises the segment identifiers of the respective two adjacent domains. The method further comprises, responsive to a request from a headend node within a source domain of the plurality of domains, computing a path from the headend node to the endpoint node. The path includes (i) the segment identifiers of any domains between the headend node and the endpoint node, and (ii) the segment identifier of the endpoint node.