Network Traffic Routing via Unique Identifier Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In client/server applications, existing methods for routing network traffic face challenges such as network contention and the need for significant processing power and bandwidth due to constant synchronization of user data across multiple servers, which can result in out-of-date data access.
Innovation Solution
A method that associates a unique identifier with application servers, allowing network traffic to be routed directly to the server where user data is stored, using a directory lookup to identify and prioritize available servers, and overwriting the intended network address with the address of the associated server, ensuring data consistency and reducing synchronization needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple servers synchronize user data constantly to ensure data consistency, then data reliability is improved, but network contention increases and processing power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments user data storage by assigning each user to a specific server based on their unique identifier (e.g., username hash). This eliminates the need for constant synchronization across all servers, as each user's data resides on only one server. The routing device directs traffic to the correct server using the unique identifier, achieving data consistency without network contention.
Solution Approach 2:
The routing device acts as an intermediary between the client and servers. It receives network traffic, extracts the unique identifier, determines the target server, and forwards traffic accordingly. This intermediary eliminates the need for servers to synchronize data by pre-determining the correct server assignment before traffic reaches the servers.
2Reliability
If a centralized data store is used to retain single copy of user data, then data consistency is improved, but processing power and network bandwidth requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single centralized data store that all servers must access, the system segments data storage across multiple servers. Each server stores only the data for users assigned to it, determined by their unique identifiers. This eliminates the need for a centralized store while maintaining data consistency through deterministic routing.
3Productivity
If network traffic is routed to any server for processing, then server utilization is improved, but data consistency deteriorates due to synchronization requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments user traffic and data storage by unique identifier, ensuring that each user's traffic is consistently routed to the same server that stores their data. This eliminates the need for synchronization while maintaining server utilization, as servers process only the data assigned to them based on identifier-based routing.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, computer program product, and system for routing computer network traffic include associating, on a routing device, a unique identifier with at least one application server running an application. Network traffic that includes the unique identifier and an intended network address may be received. In response to receiving the network traffic at least one of the application servers associated with the unique identifier may be identified. The network traffic may be forwarded to at least one of the application servers associated with the unique identifier.