Multi-homed NVE Access for Link Aggregation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current Network Virtualization Over Layer 3 (NVO3) protocol does not support multi-homed access for terminal systems, limiting their ability to connect to multiple Network Virtualization Edge (NVE) devices and utilize multiple data channels, which restricts high reliability and load balancing of traffic.
Innovation Solution
Implementing multi-homed access by configuring the same domain identifier and IP address on downstream ports of multiple NVE devices connected to a server, allowing them to connect to the same link aggregation group and perform OVERLAY-encapsulation for Ethernet packets, enabling communication through multiple NVE devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a terminal system connects to a single NVE device in the existing NVO3 protocol, then the protocol implementation is simple, but the system cannot achieve high reliability and load balancing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the NVE device functionality by introducing separate downstream ports and upstream ports. Each downstream port can be independently configured with domain identifiers and IP addresses, allowing the terminal system to access multiple NVE devices through different ports. This segmentation enables multi-homed access while maintaining manageable complexity through modular port configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the NVE device multi-functional by enabling it to serve multiple roles simultaneously: it can act as both a network virtualization edge device and a link aggregation group member. The downstream ports of NVE devices can participate in link aggregation groups, allowing the same device to provide both NVO3 overlay services and Ethernet link aggregation services, thereby achieving multi-homed access without requiring additional dedicated devices.
2Productivity
If a terminal system accesses only one NVE device, then the configuration is simple, but multiple data channels cannot be utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the NVE device functionality with link aggregation group functionality. By allowing NVE downstream ports to be members of link aggregation groups, the system combines multiple data channels into a unified access mechanism. The terminal system can simultaneously utilize multiple NVE devices through the link aggregation group, increasing network throughput and efficiency while the configuration is managed through the unified link aggregation framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to NVE device operation by introducing the concept of downstream ports that can independently participate in link aggregation groups. This creates an additional layer of connectivity where terminal systems can access NVE devices not only through the overlay network layer but also through the underlying Ethernet link aggregation layer, enabling multi-path access and improved network efficiency.
3Productivity
If the existing NVO3 protocol is used without multi-homed access, then the implementation is straightforward, but load balancing cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic behavior to the NVE device by enabling it to adapt its operation mode based on configuration. The downstream ports can be dynamically configured to join link aggregation groups, and the NVE device can dynamically participate in multiple virtual network instances. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to achieve load balancing across multiple NVE devices while maintaining compatibility with the existing NVO3 protocol framework.
Data Source
AI summary
A network virtualization authority (NVA) device generates a virtual network virtualization edge (NVE) device for members of a link aggregation group and assigns an internet protocol (IP) address to the virtual NVE.