Network Controller Fast Path Module Application Chain Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data network deployments rely exclusively on equipment vendors for functionality, limiting companies' ability to customize network devices with downloadable applications, unlike personal computers or servers.
Innovation Solution
A network controller with a fast path module processes data packets by matching network addresses against session and service tables, applying a chain of network applications to configure and modify data packets, enabling multiple functionalities to be embedded in a single network device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If companies rely exclusively on equipment vendors for network device functionality, then device reliability is maintained, but adaptability and customization capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network device functionality into modular network applications that can be independently downloaded, installed, and managed. Each application performs a specific function (e.g., firewall, routing, monitoring), allowing companies to customize their network device by selecting and combining only the applications they need, rather than relying on vendor-provided monolithic functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal network device architecture that can execute multiple different network applications on a single device. The network device includes a processing unit, memory, and an application execution environment that supports various applications, enabling one device to perform multiple functions depending on which applications are installed, thereby improving adaptability without increasing physical device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple network applications are applied to a single network device, then functionality and versatility are improved, but processing time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-compiling and optimizing network applications before deployment. Applications are downloaded in advance and stored in memory, with their execution environments prepared beforehand. This allows the network device to quickly load and execute applications without significant processing delays when functionality needs to be activated or changed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by storing multiple application instances and their execution environments in the device's memory. Instead of loading applications from external sources during operation, the system maintains local copies of applications and their runtime environments, enabling fast access and execution. This copying approach minimizes processing time while maintaining the ability to run multiple applications simultaneously.
3Ease of operation
If downloadable network applications are implemented, then ease of operation and customization are improved, but device complexity and configuration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through an automated application management system. The network device automatically downloads, installs, configures, and manages network applications without requiring manual intervention for each configuration step. The system includes automated provisioning, dependency resolution, and conflict detection capabilities that handle complex configuration tasks autonomously, making the process easy to operate despite the underlying complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary application management layer that mediates between the user and the complex underlying system. This intermediary provides a simplified interface for downloading and managing applications, handling the complexity of application deployment, configuration, and integration automatically. It acts as a mediator that shields users from the complexity while enabling easy customization through application selection and management.
Data Source
AI summary
Facilitation of processing a chain of network applications by a network controller is provided herein. In some examples, a network controller comprising a fast path module receives a service request data packet from a client side session between a client and the network controller and determines that the service request data packet matches a network application chain order, the network application chain order indicating a configuration to apply a plurality of network applications. The fast path module processes the service request data packet according to the configuration indicated in the network application chain order.