Multi-Path Virtual Tunnels for Low-Latency Satellite Failover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hybrid network configurations that utilize terrestrial networks with backup satellite networks are inflexible and incur significant latency when switching to satellite networks due to all-or-nothing failover mechanisms, failing to accommodate dynamic network conditions and varying customer quality of service needs.
Innovation Solution
Implementing virtual tunnels with both terrestrial and satellite network paths, using virtual network identifiers (VNIs) to selectively route network traffic, allowing for concurrent use of satellite paths even during terrestrial network degradation, thereby reducing latency and increasing flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional all-or-nothing failover mechanisms are used to switch from terrestrial to satellite networks, then network reliability is improved during failures, but significant latency is incurred and flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-establishes virtual tunnels through both terrestrial and satellite network paths before any failure occurs. This preliminary action allows the satellite path to be ready for immediate use without the latency of on-demand establishment, resolving the contradiction between reliability and latency by preparing backup paths in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects between terrestrial and satellite network paths based on real-time conditions, allowing flexible switching without rigid all-or-nothing failover. This dynamic approach maintains reliability while reducing latency by enabling granular, condition-based path selection rather than forced complete failover.
2Reliability
If conventional all-or-nothing failover mechanisms are used, then network reliability is improved during failures, but adaptability to dynamic network conditions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic path selection that adapts to changing network conditions by monitoring terrestrial network quality and automatically utilizing satellite paths when degradation is detected. This dynamic behavior provides both reliability during failures and adaptability to gradual conditions changes, resolving the contradiction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by adjusting which network path is used based on detected conditions. When terrestrial network quality parameters degrade below thresholds, the system transitions to satellite paths, providing adaptability while maintaining reliability through parameter-based decision making.
3Adaptability or versatility
If virtual tunnels with concurrent satellite paths are implemented, then flexibility and adaptability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces a network path manager as an intermediary component that handles the complexity of managing multiple virtual tunnels and path selection. This mediator abstracts the complexity from the core network operations, allowing flexibility through multiple paths while containing complexity in a dedicated management layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments network paths into separate virtual tunnels for terrestrial and satellite connections, each managed independently. This segmentation allows flexible use of multiple paths while organizing complexity into discrete, manageable units rather than a monolithic complex system.
4Loss of energy
If terrestrial networks are used, then cost is reduced, but reliability and coverage are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a multi-functional network architecture where satellite infrastructure serves dual purposes: providing primary coverage in remote areas and serving as backup during terrestrial failures. This universality allows cost-effective terrestrial usage when available while maintaining reliability through shared satellite capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies different network qualities locally by using cost-effective terrestrial networks when available and reliable, and switching to satellite networks when terrestrial reliability is insufficient. This local quality approach optimizes cost by using cheaper terrestrial paths while maintaining overall reliability through selective satellite usage.
Data Source
AI summary
Virtual connections are established between remotely connected servers in a network. The virtual connections include (1) a terrestrial path, as well as (2) a satellite path, for routing the flow of packets through the network. Keys are used for controlling the selective routing of packets through the virtual connections with either the terrestrial path and/or the satellite path. Some tenants in the network are provided virtual connections for enabling their use of the satellite paths and corresponding satellite components. Other tenants are only provided access to terrestrial connections and are restricted from utilizing the referenced satellite components.