Dynamic Network Adapter Memory Resizing for Virtual Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network adapter memory management systems face inefficiencies and inter-partition boundary violations due to static memory allocation for virtual functions, which do not adapt to dynamic translation entry storage requirements, leading to suboptimal resource utilization and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A system dynamically resizes memory partitions on a network adapter based on the storage requirements of translation entries for virtual functions, utilizing onboard and offboard memory, and a cache hierarchy to optimize memory usage and reduce latency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If static memory allocation is used for virtual functions, then memory partitioning is simple and device complexity is reduced, but memory utilization efficiency deteriorates and inter-partition boundary violations occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic memory partitioning where the memory allocation for each virtual function is not fixed but can be adjusted based on runtime requirements. The system monitors translation entry storage needs and dynamically resizes memory partitions to match actual usage patterns, transforming the static memory management approach into a dynamic one that adapts to changing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the memory allocation parameter from a fixed static value to a dynamic value that varies based on translation entry requirements. By monitoring the number of translation entries needed by each virtual function and adjusting memory partition sizes accordingly, the system optimizes memory utilization while preventing boundary violations through parameter-based adaptation.
2Quantity of substance
If larger memory partitions are allocated to virtual functions, then translation entry storage capacity is improved, but memory waste increases and resource utilization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts memory partition sizes based on the actual translation entry storage requirements of each virtual function. Instead of allocating fixed large partitions that may go unused, the memory allocation adapts in real-time to match the quantity of translation entries needed, ensuring adequate capacity while minimizing wasted memory resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory management system automatically monitors and adjusts partition sizes based on the actual needs of virtual functions without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by detecting when memory reallocation is needed and performing the adjustment autonomously, optimizing the balance between storage capacity and waste reduction.
3Quantity of substance
If more onboard memory is provided on network adapters, then translation entry storage is improved, but device cost and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic memory allocation that adjusts onboard memory usage based on actual translation entry requirements. Instead of provisioning excessive static memory capacity on network adapters, the system dynamically allocates only the necessary amount of memory to each virtual function, reducing the total onboard memory needed while maintaining adequate storage capacity for translation entries.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the memory allocation parameter from a fixed over-provisioned value to a dynamic value that matches actual usage. By monitoring translation entry requirements and adjusting memory partition sizes accordingly, the system reduces the total onboard memory capacity needed on network adapters, thereby lowering device cost and power consumption while maintaining sufficient storage capacity.
4Device complexity
If static memory allocation is used, then memory partitioning is straightforward and device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to dynamic requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static memory partitioning into a dynamic system that automatically adapts to changing translation entry requirements. The memory allocation for each virtual function is adjusted in real-time based on monitored usage patterns, enabling the system to adapt to varying workload demands while maintaining manageable complexity through automated management.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory management system performs self-adjustment by automatically monitoring translation entry requirements and reallocating memory partitions without external intervention. This self-service approach enables adaptability to dynamic requirements while keeping the system relatively simple, as the adaptation logic is embedded in the automated management mechanism rather than requiring complex external control.
Data Source
AI summary
An approach is provided which a system selects a first virtual function from a plurality of virtual functions executing on a network adapter that includes a memory area. Next, the system allocates, in the memory area, a memory corresponding to the first virtual function. The system then stores one or more translation entries in the allocated memory partition, which are utilized to send data traversing through the first virtual function. As such, the system sends, utilizing one or more of the translation entries, the data packets from the network adapter to one or more destinations. In turn, the system dynamically resizes the memory partition based upon an amount of the memory partition that is utilized to store the one or more translation entries.