Multicast Message Encapsulation for Multi-Site Network Forwarding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-site network technologies face challenges in forwarding multicast data messages across geographically dispersed sites due to the horizontal partitioning function, which prevents messages from being forwarded through MSN tunnels when the multicast source and receiver are connected to different edge devices within the same Layer 2 network.
Innovation Solution
Implementing edge devices that enable multicast snooping protocols and create designated router ports for each VLAN, allowing the replication and encapsulation of multicast data messages into MSN messages that can be forwarded across the network, thereby bypassing the horizontal partitioning function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the horizontal partitioning function is implemented in edge devices, then network security and control are improved, but multicast data message forwarding across different edge devices is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a multicast message encapsulation mechanism where the original multicast message is wrapped with additional header information containing site network identifiers and forwarding instructions. This encapsulation acts as an intermediary that allows the message to traverse the core network between different edge devices while maintaining the security boundaries imposed by horizontal partitioning. The receiving edge device can then extract and forward the message appropriately without compromising network security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to the forwarding decision process by introducing site network identification and multicast group information into the message structure. Instead of making forwarding decisions based solely on local site boundaries (single dimension), the system now considers multiple dimensions including source site, destination site, and multicast group membership. This enables multicast messages to cross edge device boundaries while maintaining controlled access through the core network.
2Stability of the object's composition
If edge devices maintain strict Layer 2 boundary enforcement, then network segmentation and security are improved, but multicast communication across sites is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the multicast forwarding function into multiple independent components: (1) message encapsulation at the source edge device, (2) core network transport with site identification, (3) message decapsulation and forwarding decision at the destination edge device. This segmentation allows each component to operate independently, maintaining Layer 2 boundaries while enabling controlled multicast communication across sites through the core network infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal multicast message format that can carry information across different site networks while maintaining compatibility with existing Layer 2 protocols. The encapsulated message structure serves multiple functions: preserving original message integrity, adding routing information for cross-site delivery, and enabling the receiving edge device to make informed forwarding decisions. This multi-functional approach allows the same mechanism to handle both intra-site and inter-site multicast traffic.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an example, in a method for multicasting a data message by an apparatus in a multi-site network (MSN), a multicast data message that is to be communicated to another apparatus over the MSN network may be received, in which the apparatus includes a MSN-link port through which data messages are to be communicated to the another apparatus. In addition, a determination may be made that the received multicast data message is to be communicated to the another apparatus through the MSN-link port. The received multicast data message may be replicated and the replicated multicast data message may be encapsulated into a MSN message. Moreover; the MSN message encapsulating the replicated multicast data message may be tunneled to the another apparatus over the MSN-link port.