Network Path Congestion Detection via Throughput Derivations
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Ethernet local area networks (E-LAN), accurately tracking performance and compliance with service level agreements (SLA) is complicated due to congestion issues at user network interfaces (UNI) and core network segments, leading to incorrect congestion reporting and potential service disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that determine the state of network paths by monitoring throughput and frame characteristics at nodes, using a state machine to assess congestion based on observed throughput and bandwidth profiles, allowing for accurate SLA compliance tracking and alarm suppression during non-critical conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If throughput monitoring and derivation analysis are implemented to determine path congestion states, then measurement precision and SLA compliance tracking are improved, but device complexity and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the network path into multiple measurement points (ingress and egress UNIs) and analyzes congestion states independently at each segment. The state machine divides congestion assessment into distinct states (congested, not congested, unknown) based on throughput measurements at different points along the path, allowing precise localization of congestion without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary state machine that acts as a mediator between raw throughput measurements and congestion state determination. This state machine processes throughput data from multiple UNIs, applies bandwidth profile comparisons, and generates congestion state outputs, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining high measurement precision.
2Loss of information
If derivations of frame characteristics are calculated at network nodes, then information about path states is improved, but loss of time for processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring bandwidth profiles and thresholds for different service levels before actual traffic flow occurs. The state machine is pre-programmed with congestion determination logic and bandwidth characteristics, allowing it to rapidly process real-time throughput measurements without performing complex calculations during active traffic periods, thus minimizing processing time while maintaining complete path state information.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of determining the state of a path in a network. A rate of throughput is observed at a node of the network over an interval for at least a portion of the path. Derivations associated with a characteristic of the frames or traffic flows communicated over at least the portion of the path are determined at the node. A state of congestion of the path is determined in response to the observed rate of throughput as compared to a bandwidth profile of the path and the derivations.