NAT Traversal Policy Using NAT Type and IP Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The conventional NAT traversal success rate in peer-to-peer network communication is low, necessitating an improvement to enhance connectivity and reduce server load.
Innovation Solution
A method for determining a NAT traversal policy by analyzing the NAT type and IP address of terminal devices, adjusting traversal parameters based on device identities, and optimizing the sending sequence, quantity, and port steps of detection packets to improve traversal success.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional NAT traversal methods are used, then the implementation is simple, but the NAT traversal success rate is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting traversal parameters (such as detection packet sequence, quantity, and port steps) based on the determined NAT type and IP address characteristics. Different parameter sets are selected according to the specific NAT scenario, transforming a static traversal approach into a dynamic one that adapts to varying network conditions, thereby improving the traversal success rate without requiring complex infrastructure changes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the traversal policy adaptive and configurable rather than fixed. The system determines NAT type and IP address information, then dynamically selects appropriate traversal parameters based on these characteristics. This dynamic adjustment allows the traversal mechanism to respond to different network environments, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and success rate by automating the parameter selection process
2Reliability
If detection packets are sent frequently to improve traversal reliability, then the NAT traversal success rate increases, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by sending detection packets in controlled quantities rather than continuously or excessively. The system determines an appropriate number of detection packets to send based on the NAT type and traversal requirements, avoiding both insufficient probing (which would reduce success rate) and excessive probing (which would waste energy). This partial action approach optimizes the balance between reliability and power consumption by sending only the necessary number of packets
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by sending detection packets at specific intervals and sequences rather than continuously. The traversal process uses structured periodic detection with defined sequences and timing, allowing the system to monitor NAT traversal status without constant packet transmission. This periodic approach reduces power consumption while maintaining traversal reliability by concentrating detection efforts at critical moments
3Measurement precision
If more detection packets are sent to reduce mutual impact, then the traversal accuracy improves, but the impact on firewall flow control increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by customizing detection packet characteristics (sequence, quantity, port steps) according to the specific NAT type and traversal scenario. Rather than using a uniform detection approach for all cases, the system adjusts the detection strategy locally to match the determined NAT characteristics. This localized optimization improves traversal accuracy while minimizing firewall impact by sending appropriately tailored packets for each specific situation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes to adjust detection packet characteristics based on the determined NAT type and IP address information. By changing parameters such as the number of detection packets, their sequence, and port step values, the system optimizes traversal accuracy for different NAT scenarios while controlling the overall packet volume to minimize firewall flow control impact. This parameter adaptation allows precise traversal without excessive resource consumption
Data Source
AI summary
This application provides a method for determining a network address translation (NAT) traversal policy and an apparatus. The method is applied to a communication system including a first terminal device and a second terminal device. The first terminal device accesses a network by using a first NAT device, and the second terminal device accesses the network by using a second NAT device. In the method, it is determined, by separately obtaining a NAT type and an internet protocol (IP) address of the first terminal device and a NAT type and an IP address of the second terminal device, that both the first terminal device and the second terminal device are of a symmetric NAT type. In addition, based on whether the IP address of the first terminal device is the same as the IP address of the second terminal device, NAT traversal is performed according to different traversal policies.