Network Driver Bandwidth Aggregation via Virtual Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bandwidth aggregation methods require modifications at both ends of the network, use network proxies or management systems, and cannot simultaneously estimate bandwidth across multiple interfaces without corresponding components or specific architectures.
Innovation Solution
A cross-layer system that aggregates and estimates bandwidth by creating a virtual physical interface, using ICMP echo packets to measure network channel conditions, and distributing data packets based on estimated conditions without requiring counter components or network proxies, allowing for adaptive bandwidth aggregation across multiple physical interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If bandwidth aggregation is performed using existing methods, then total available bandwidth is improved, but system complexity increases due to requiring proxy architecture, service level agreements, and counter components at destination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the bandwidth aggregation functionality from complex external components (proxies, service level agreements, counter components) and implements it directly in the network driver module. This removes the need for intermediary systems and destination counter components, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining bandwidth aggregation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The network driver module is designed to perform multiple functions: it simultaneously manages multiple physical interfaces, aggregates bandwidth, estimates available bandwidth, and distributes data packets. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate proxy architectures and service level agreement mechanisms, reducing system complexity while achieving bandwidth aggregation.
2Ease of manufacture
If bandwidth aggregation is performed without corresponding components at destination, then ease of implementation is improved, but bandwidth estimation capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The network driver module performs preliminary bandwidth estimation by actively sending probe packets through each physical interface before actual data transmission. This preliminary measurement of round-trip times and packet loss allows the system to estimate available bandwidth without requiring counter components at the destination, maintaining both ease of implementation and estimation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the network driver module continuously monitors transmission performance metrics (round-trip times, packet loss) and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust bandwidth estimates and data packet distribution. This feedback loop enables accurate bandwidth estimation without requiring external counter components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modifications are made at both ends of the network, then bandwidth aggregation control is improved, but device complexity and deployment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the bandwidth aggregation control functionality into a single location - the network driver module at one end of the network. By combining interface management, bandwidth estimation, and packet distribution functions into this single module, the system achieves effective bandwidth aggregation control without requiring coordinated modifications at both network ends, thereby reducing deployment complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a system and method for aggregating and estimating the bandwidth of the multiple network interfaces. Particularly, the invention provides a cross layer system for bandwidth aggregation based on dynamic analysis of network conditions. Further, the invention provides a system and method of estimation for evaluating bandwidth of multiple physical interfaces.