Multi-Region Overlay SD-WAN Segmentation for Topology Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional enterprise WAN networks face complexity and management challenges in large-scale deployments across multiple geographical regions, especially when using SD-WAN technology, as they require cumbersome configuration and management of complex network topologies, and lack flexibility and cost-effectiveness compared to MPLS networks.
Innovation Solution
A multi-region virtual overlay SD-WAN architecture is introduced, dividing the network into regions with specialized network appliances that create a virtual overlay network, allowing for customizable business policies, reduced tunnel requirements, and centralized orchestration to manage network traffic and policies across regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If SD-WAN technology is used to replace MPLS for large-scale multi-regional deployments, then cost is reduced and flexibility is improved, but network topology configuration complexity increases and management becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the large-scale multi-regional SD-WAN into hierarchical segments: global virtual network, regional virtual networks, and local site connections. Each region is treated as an independent virtual network that can be configured and managed separately, reducing the overall configuration complexity while maintaining flexibility across the entire enterprise network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces regional edge appliances as intermediary devices that simplify connectivity between sites within a region. These appliances automatically establish mesh topology and manage local routing, acting as mediators that reduce the configuration burden on enterprise network teams while enabling flexible multi-regional deployments.
2Loss of energy
If SD-WAN creates virtual overlay networks using Internet links as raw pipes, then cost is reduced compared to MPLS, but the complexity of configuring and managing network topologies increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the SD-WAN network to self-configure and self-manage through automated processes. Edge appliances automatically discover each other, establish secure tunnels, and configure routing protocols without manual intervention. This self-service capability reduces operational complexity while maintaining cost advantages of using Internet links over MPLS.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary configuration templates and policies that are pre-defined for common network scenarios. These templates allow enterprises to rapidly deploy SD-WAN across multiple regions by simply selecting predefined configurations, significantly reducing the time and expertise required for network topology setup and management.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for the creation, management, and utilization of a multi-region virtual overlay wide area network from a plurality of special purpose network appliances. In exemplary embodiments, multiple regions are created for the virtual overlay wide area network, each region having its own network topology. At least one network appliance from each region is in communication with at least one network appliance from each other region, for inter-region connectivity within the virtual overlay wide area network. A subnet sharing protocol can be utilized to exchange routing information among each network appliance within each region, and between each region.