Network Path State Detection with Per-Path Packet Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network technologies lack visibility into the specific paths taken by packets, making it difficult to accurately identify packet loss and diagnose network issues, especially in large-scale networks where queue pairs (QPs) complicate tracking individual flows.
Innovation Solution
Associating path identifiers and per-path packet sequence numbers with packets at layer 2 or 3 of the OSI model to track packet loss and path states, enabling network nodes to analyze packet loss and generate telemetry data for network analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional network tracking methods are used, then network operation is simple, but packet loss identification precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network path tracking by introducing path identifiers that divide the network into distinct paths. Each path is independently tracked using sequence numbers, allowing precise identification of packet loss at the path level without requiring complex end-to-end analysis of all possible routes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses path identifiers and sequence numbers as intermediary elements that mediate between the sender and receiver. These intermediaries carry path information through the network, enabling intermediate nodes to forward packets while maintaining path state information without requiring complex processing at each node.
2Loss of information
If path tracking information is added to packets, then path state visibility is improved, but packet header complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by adding only the necessary path identification information (path identifiers and sequence numbers) rather than complete path state data. This provides sufficient visibility for packet loss detection without overflowing packet headers with excessive information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds path state information in a new dimensional layer separate from traditional packet headers. By using dedicated path identifier fields and sequence numbers as separate tracking dimensions, the system enhances visibility without fundamentally redesigning the packet structure.
3Measurement precision
If per-path sequence numbers are implemented, then packet loss detection accuracy is improved, but processing complexity at network nodes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing path-specific sequence numbers only where needed for loss detection, rather than processing all packets uniformly. Network nodes can selectively process sequence numbers for paths experiencing issues while maintaining normal operation for healthy paths.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a sender node includes packet processing circuitry to associate, at layer 2 or 3 of Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, path identifiers and per-path packet sequence numbers with packets, wherein the path identifiers identify paths from the sender node to receiver nodes, and an interface to send the packets with the associated packet sequence numbers and path identifiers to the receiver nodes.