Multi-WAN Packet Transmission via Dynamic Tunnel Classification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for transmitting data packets in multi-WAN site-to-site VPN connections fail to utilize multiple WAN connections effectively due to conditions not being considered, leading to suboptimal throughput as some tunnels and network interfaces are used despite not meeting required criteria.
Innovation Solution
A system that classifies established end-to-end connections into groups based on conditions, allowing data packets to be transmitted through satisfactory connections while avoiding unsatisfactory ones, with active backup interfaces maintained for quick switching and error correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If channel bonding is implemented to distribute data across multiple tunnels, then throughput of single data transfer sessions is improved, but packet loss increases when tunnels do not meet quality conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes the parameter of tunnel selection by evaluating quality metrics (packet loss, latency, bandwidth) and adjusting which tunnels are active for data transmission. Tunnles that fail to meet quality thresholds are automatically removed from the active set, while satisfactory tunnels are prioritized, thereby adapting the transmission path parameters to current network conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The tunnel selection mechanism is made dynamic through continuous monitoring of quality conditions and real-time reconfiguration of active tunnels. The system transitions between different tunnel configurations based on satisfaction of quality criteria, allowing the network path to adapt dynamically rather than using static channel bonding configurations.
2Productivity
If multiple WAN connections are utilized for a single TCP/IP session, then bandwidth aggregation is improved, but network complexity increases due to tunnel management
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service automation where the router automatically evaluates tunnel quality conditions, classifies tunnels as satisfactory or unsatisfactory, and dynamically adjusts packet distribution without manual intervention. The quality assessment and tunnel selection process is autonomous, reducing the operational complexity of managing multiple WAN connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments tunnels into distinct groups (satisfactory vs. unsatisfactory) based on quality conditions, allowing independent management of each segment. This classification enables simplified routing decisions where packets are directed only to the satisfactory segment, reducing the effective complexity of tunnel management while maintaining bandwidth aggregation benefits.
3Ease of operation
If tunnels are selected without considering quality conditions, then ease of operation is improved, but network performance deteriorates due to using suboptimal paths
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring tunnel quality metrics (packet loss, latency, bandwidth availability) and using this feedback to dynamically adjust tunnel selection. The quality assessment feedback loop ensures that only tunnels meeting satisfactory conditions are used for data transmission, automatically optimizing network performance without complex manual configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A method carried out by a first communications device for transmitting data packets, wherein the first communications device comprises a plurality of network interfaces. Data packets are transmitted through a first network interface when a first condition is satisfied, and through a second network interface when a second condition is satisfied. In one of the embodiments, the plurality of network interfaces are classified into a plurality of groups of network interfaces according to a first group of conditions, and the first network interface and second network interface belong to two different groups of network interfaces.