Network Function Node Message Handling for Software Upgrade Traffic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing techniques for handling messages in networks, particularly in 5G core networks, face challenges in managing network traffic during software upgrades, leading to potential overload and failure of network function (NF) nodes.
Innovation Solution
A method where a first NF node initiates a message transmission to a second NF node, indicating whether a third NF node should support testing in the network, allowing for controlled traffic management during software upgrades.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If all NF nodes process network traffic normally during software upgrades, then network service continuity is maintained, but NF nodes may become overloaded and fail
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network traffic into two categories: test traffic and normal traffic. During software upgrades, a flag in the NF instance indicator field indicates whether the NF node is a test instance. This segmentation allows test traffic to be directed to specific test NF nodes while normal traffic continues to flow through production NF nodes, preventing overload on upgrade nodes while maintaining service continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the service request message that carries the NF instance indicator flag. This intermediary element enables the network to distinguish between test and production NF nodes without requiring changes to the core communication protocol, allowing controlled traffic routing during upgrades while maintaining existing service workflows.
2Reliability
If network traffic is controlled during software upgrades, then NF node overload is prevented, but network service continuity may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the traffic control mechanism selective rather than global. The NF instance indicator flag in the service request message enables fine-grained control at the individual NF node level. Only specific test NF nodes receive test traffic based on their flagged status, while production NF nodes continue handling normal traffic without interruption, maintaining service continuity while enabling controlled upgrades.
3Reliability
If software upgrades are tested in the network, then upgrade reliability is improved, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes a single parameter in the existing service request message structure by adding an NF instance indicator flag. This parameter change enables testing functionality without requiring fundamental changes to the network architecture or message protocols. The flag can be set to indicate test or production status, allowing software upgrades to be tested by routing traffic appropriately based on this parameter while keeping the overall system structure simple.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a method for handling messages in a network. The method is performed by a first network function (NF) node in the network. Transmission of a first message is initiated (202) towards a second NF node in the network in response to an event that signals first information is to be managed by a third NF node in the network. The first message comprises the first information and an indication of whether the third N node is to be an N node that supports testing in the network. The first message comprises the indication for the third NF node to take into account when managing the first information.