Network Virtualization Platform Translating Application Abstractions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Software-defined networking (SDN) and platform-as-a-service (PAAS)/container-as-a-service (CAAS) solutions lack the flexibility to translate application-level abstractions into underlying network topologies, hindering quota management, tenant-level isolation, and deployment flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that translate application-level abstractions to logical network topologies using a central controller and SDN container manager, mapping event requests from container orchestrators to logical network resources via a network virtualization platform, implementing forwarding rules on host machines to define the logical network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network overlay solutions like Flannel or Calico are used to provide networking for applications, then networking support is provided, but flexibility in determining how applications' networking needs are translated to underlying network topology is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary component (network virtualization platform with orchestrator adaptor) that sits between the container orchestrator and the physical network infrastructure. This intermediary translates application-level networking abstractions into logical network topologies, providing the needed flexibility without requiring direct complex mappings. The intermediary maintains event requests from applications and translates them to appropriate network configurations dynamically.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional network overlay solutions are used, then networking is provided for containers, but support for quota management, tenant-level isolation, and deployment flexibility is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal network virtualization platform that handles multiple functions simultaneously: it provides basic container networking, implements quota management, enables tenant-level isolation, and supports flexible deployment options. The system uses a unified approach where a single network fabric can serve multiple purposes and multiple tenants with different requirements, managed through a common orchestrator adaptor interface.
3Ease of operation
If application-level abstractions are used in PAAS/CAAS solutions, then application deployment is simplified, but native networking support and control over underlying network topology are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service capabilities where the network virtualization platform automatically translates application-level networking requests into appropriate network configurations without requiring manual intervention. The orchestrator adaptor monitors event requests from container orchestrators and automatically creates, modifies, or deletes logical network resources based on application needs, enabling both simplicity for applications and proper network management.
Data Source
AI summary
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure include a method for translating an application-level abstraction to a logical network topology. The method includes receiving an event request from a container orchestrator at an orchestrator adaptor. The method also includes translating the event request to a logical network resource via an application programming interface associated with a network virtualization platform. The method includes mapping the event request to the logical network resource. The method also includes deploying the logical network resource in a logical network via the network virtualization platform.