Network Traffic Policy Selection via Ingestion Point Indication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for managing data traffic in ISP networks struggle to distinguish between transit and peering traffic, leading to confusion and inefficiencies in charging and quality-of-service management, as well as limitations in applying specific policies due to the placement of Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) systems.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that assign ingestion point indications to data traffic, allowing for the selection of traffic management policies based on the characteristic of the network ingestion point, enabling holistic traffic management and policy enforcement across the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If DPI systems are sited close to transit and peering points, then the ISP can apply specific policies to Internet traffic and control transit/peering arrangements, but the ISP loses the ability to analyse and control subscriber traffic that is turned around or originated in the ISP's network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into multiple ingestion points (transit, peering, and subscriber access points) and places DPI capability at strategic locations including near subscriber access points. This segmentation allows different policy types to be applied to different traffic sources while maintaining comprehensive visibility of all traffic flows through the segmented architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the DPI system positioned near subscriber access points that receives copies of traffic flows) that enables policy analysis without blocking the main traffic flow. This intermediary approach allows the ISP to maintain control over both Internet traffic and subscriber traffic simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between specific policy application and comprehensive network control.
2Loss of energy
If transit interfaces are operated at very high utilisations, then the ISP constrains the amount paid to the transit provider and encourages direct peering arrangements, but the ISP's own subscribers' experience is indiscriminately degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing differentiated policy treatment for different traffic types and sources. Traffic from specific ingestion points (transit, peering, or subscriber access) receives tailored policies based on its origin and characteristics, allowing cost optimization for certain traffic while protecting subscriber quality of service through localized policy application rather than uniform high utilization across all interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic policy adjustment based on real-time traffic analysis. The DPI system continuously monitors traffic flows and applies policies that can be dynamically modified based on current network conditions, allowing the ISP to respond to changing traffic patterns and maintain service quality while managing costs flexibly rather than through static high utilization constraints.
3Measurement precision
If multiple DPI systems are deployed at different network points, then comprehensive traffic analysis is possible, but network complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal DPI system architecture that can be deployed at multiple ingestion points including transit, peering, and subscriber access points. This multi-functional DPI capability allows a single type of system to perform comprehensive traffic analysis across all network entry points, reducing the need for specialized equipment at each location and thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
4Device complexity
If a single DPI system is deployed near subscriber access points, then the ISP can maintain control over all traffic flows, but the ability to apply specific policies to different ingestion points is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the DPI system near subscriber access points receives traffic flow information and applies policies based on the identified ingestion point and traffic characteristics. The system provides feedback about traffic patterns and policy application results, enabling continuous optimization of policy enforcement while maintaining comprehensive traffic control from a centralized location rather than requiring distributed DPI systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for operating a data network (10), the data network comprising a plurality of network ingestion points (12, 14) via which data traffic (38) may be received from another data network, and a plurality of network attachment points (16) via which data traffic may be forwarded. The method comprises receiving data traffic (38) via said network ingestion points (12, 14), assigning ingestion point indications indicative of a characteristic of the network ingestion points (12, 14); forwarding the traffic via said network attachment points (16); and in respect of data traffic being forwarded via said network attachment points (16), determining traffic information indicative of a characteristic of the data traffic; and selecting a traffic management policy in dependence on said traffic information and the characteristic of the network ingestion point via which the data traffic was received.