Network Path Naming With Hop-Based Interface Association
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current internet addresses do not adequately indicate the location of network interface components (NICs) within nodes, leading to unnecessary duplication with domain name spaces and inefficiencies in network routing.
Innovation Solution
Methods and systems for associating a name with a network path by identifying symbolic identifiers and hop information across network paths, using processors and logic to send messages that link nodes and associate names with network paths, including components like resolvers, topology spaces, and topology relays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If current internet addresses are used to identify nodes, then routing can be performed, but the location of network interface components within nodes cannot be adequately indicated and duplication with domain name spaces occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the identifier space into multiple components: a node identifier and a path identifier. The node identifier points to a node in the network, while the path identifier specifies the network interface component and its location within the node. This segmentation allows precise indication of NIC locations without requiring complete duplication of domain name spaces, as the path identifier provides the additional location information needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to the traditional IP address structure by introducing path information as a separate component. Instead of relying solely on the node identifier (which points to a node but not a specific interface), the path identifier adds a hierarchical dimension that specifies the exact network interface component and its physical or logical location within the node, enabling precise location indication.
2Ease of operation
If domain name spaces are used to indicate node locations, then name resolution is possible, but unnecessary duplication occurs and network efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of node identification and location indication into a single integrated identifier structure. The node identifier combined with the path identifier provides both the node location and the specific network interface location, eliminating the need for separate domain name space duplication. This unified approach maintains ease of operation for name resolution while improving network efficiency by reducing redundant identifier spaces.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If IP addresses are used for routing, then data can be transmitted between nodes, but the specific network interface components within nodes cannot be identified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the routing information into two parts: the node identifier for general node routing and the path identifier for specific interface routing. This segmentation allows the routing system to first determine the destination node using the node identifier, then precisely identify the target network interface component using the path identifier, eliminating routing inefficiency while preserving interface location information.
Solution Approach 2:
The path identifier acts as an intermediary between the node identifier and the actual network interface. It provides the additional information needed to locate the specific interface component within the node, serving as a mediator that bridges the gap between general node routing and specific interface addressing, thereby eliminating the loss of interface location information.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are described for associating a name with a network path. In an aspect, a first message is received, from a first node by a second node via a first network path in a network. A first identifier of the first node is identified, wherein the first network path includes a first hop included in communicatively coupling the first node and the second node. Second path information is identified that identifies a second hop in a second network path included in communicatively coupling the second node and a third node. A second message is sent, identifying the first identifier and the first hop, to the third node via the second hop to associate the first identifier with a third network path that includes a node included in at least one of the first hop and the second hop.