Network Path Coordination Using Port Utilization Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern data center networks face issues with network congestion due to hash collisions and uneven path utilization in Leaf/Spine fabrics, leading to degraded performance and inefficient use of resources.
Innovation Solution
A distributed underlay controller agent on each node collects local switch port utilization statistics to select the least-utilized end-to-end path using source routing, avoiding hash collisions and minimizing congestion by scheduling flows through underutilized paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If ECMP hashing is used to select paths at every hop, then path selection is automated and distributed, but hash collisions occur causing multiple flows to use the same path leading to network congestion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where network nodes monitor path utilization metrics and congestion levels in real-time. This feedback information is used to dynamically adjust path selection decisions, allowing the system to respond to changing network conditions and avoid congestion caused by hash collisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from static ECMP hashing to dynamic path selection where routing decisions adapt based on current network state. Path selection becomes dynamic by considering real-time metrics such as link utilization, congestion levels, and flow characteristics, allowing the system to optimize throughput under varying conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple hashing points are used in the underlay, then path diversity is increased, but it becomes difficult to determine or control the end-to-end path resulting in uneven ECMP path usage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary path computation and selection before traffic flow establishment. By pre-calculating optimal end-to-end paths considering overall network state, the system establishes controlled routing decisions upfront, avoiding the unpredictability of multiple distributed hashing points while maintaining path diversity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal path selection mechanism that works across different network layers and protocols. The end-to-end path control framework provides a unified approach that coordinates routing decisions across multiple hashing points, ensuring consistent path selection throughout the network infrastructure.
3Productivity
If centralized network monitoring is implemented to address congestion, then network performance can be optimized, but scalability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized monitoring function into distributed monitoring capabilities at individual network nodes. Each node independently collects and analyzes local path utilization metrics, eliminating the need for a single centralized monitoring point and improving system scalability while maintaining performance optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables network nodes to autonomously monitor and assess their own path utilization and congestion states. Each node performs self-service monitoring, collecting relevant metrics and making localized routing decisions based on its own observations, reducing the burden on centralized monitoring infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a computer program product, system, and method for coordinating selection of a path between a source node and a destination node in a network. The source node selects a first path to a destination node based on source switch port utilization information for ports in a local source switch. The source node transmits a path setup message to the destination node over the selected first path. The destination node determines a second path from the source node to the destination node including a selected local source switch port and a local destination switch port based on utilization information in the path setup message and destination switch port utilization information. The destination node transmits to the source node a reply to the path setup message indicating the second path. The source node uses the second path indicated in the reply to communicate with the destination node.