Network Interface Segmentation for Policy Adaptability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current computing devices are limited in providing dynamic network features and services due to network interfaces supporting only one configuration at a time, which restricts the ability to adapt to momentary needs and introduces inefficiencies and performance degradation when implementing features like packet segmentation and bandwidth throttling in software.
Innovation Solution
Implementing multiple independently configured network interfaces on a single computing device, allowing for separate configuration of each interface to support various network policies, such as different maximum transmission units and interrupt coalescing, thereby leveraging hardware segmentation and reducing software-based inefficiencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single network interface is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different network configurations and policies deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network interface functionality by introducing multiple virtual functions (VFs) within a single physical function (PF). Each VF can be independently configured with different network policies, MTUs, and parameters, allowing the system to adapt to various network configurations without adding multiple physical interfaces. This segmentation enables flexible adaptation while maintaining a single physical device footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical function (PF) serves as a universal interface that can host multiple virtual functions (VFs), each capable of performing different network operations with different configurations. The PF manages and coordinates these VFs, providing a multi-functional capability that allows a single physical interface to handle diverse network policies, protocols, and transmission requirements simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If software-based packet segmentation and bandwidth throttling are implemented, then network feature availability is improved, but performance degradation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces hardware-based segmentation and throttling capabilities as an intermediary layer between the software network stack and the physical network interface. The network interface card includes dedicated hardware circuits for packet segmentation and bandwidth control that operate independently of software processing, thereby providing network features with minimal performance impact. This hardware intermediary handles the computationally intensive tasks that would otherwise burden the software.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple network interfaces are implemented, then network policy flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple virtual functions (VFs) are contained within a single physical function (PF). This nested arrangement allows the system to provide multiple network interfaces with different policies and configurations while physically consolidating them into one network card. The PF contains and manages the VFs, creating a hierarchical structure that reduces device complexity compared to having separate physical interfaces for each virtual function.
Data Source
AI summary
The transmission of data on computer networks according to one or more policies is disclosed. A policy may specify, among other things, various parameters which are to be followed when transmitting initiating network traffic. Multiple network interfaces may be installed on a server to enable transmission of data from the single server according a number of discrete configuration settings implicated by the various policies. The multiple network interfaces may correspond to separate physical components, with each component configured independently to implement a feature of a policy. The multiple network interfaces may also correspond to a single physical component that exposes multiple network interfaces, both to the network and to the server on which it is installed.