Distributed ndOS for Network Device Topology and Traffic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network devices such as switches and routers have limited functionality to monitor and control packet flow, restricting their ability to manage network traffic effectively.
Innovation Solution
A distributed operating system (ndOS) is implemented across network devices, enabling fine-grained control of a layer 2 fabric through a switch fabric classifier, control processor, and network processing units, which process packets based on classification rules and SLA/QoS requirements, and generate layer 2 topologies using discovery packets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If network devices use traditional switching functionality, then packet forwarding is simple and fast, but control and management capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network device into multiple independent functional units: network processing units (NPUs) for packet processing, a control processor for management, and a switch fabric for forwarding. Each NPU can independently execute classification rules and process packets, while the control processor manages overall device operations. This segmentation enables enhanced control capabilities without compromising forwarding performance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If network devices have limited functionality, then device complexity is low, but ability to monitor and control packet flow is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The control processor serves multiple functions: it manages the switch fabric, configures NPUs with classification rules, monitors network traffic, and controls packet forwarding. This multi-functional design enables the device to perform diverse operations including routing, switching, and network management without requiring separate dedicated hardware for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary classification mechanism where the control processor sends classification rules to NPUs, which then use these rules to filter and direct packets. This intermediary layer enables sophisticated packet flow control and monitoring capabilities while maintaining efficient hardware-based forwarding through the switch fabric.
3Ease of operation
If packets are processed through traditional switching, then forwarding speed is high, but fine-grained control is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The control processor performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring classification rules in the NPUs before packet arrival. These rules define how packets should be classified, filtered, and directed based on various criteria. This preliminary configuration enables NPUs to make rapid forwarding decisions without real-time processing delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the control processor monitors packet flow and NPU operations, then adjusts classification rules and forwarding parameters based on observed traffic patterns and performance metrics. This feedback loop enables dynamic optimization of packet processing while maintaining fine-grained control over network traffic.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer programs are presented for managing a global network topology. One method includes an operation for generating, by a network device, a local topology identifying which network entities are connected to each external port of the network device. The network device is configured to execute a network device operation system (ndOS), and the network device is configured to share information associated with the local topology with other ndOS network devices that execute ndOS. Further, the method includes an operation for receiving one or more remote local topologies from respective one or more ndOS network devices. The network device generates a global topology based on the local topology and the one or more remote local topologies, where the global topology is shared by the network device and the ndOS network devices executing ndOS, and the global topology identifies which entities are connected to one or more of the ndOS network devices.