NFV Path Tracing via Midpoint Compressed Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Network Function Virtualization (NFV) chains, there is no guaranteed way to determine whether a packet has traversed the correct Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) and how long it takes for packet processing, especially in virtual environments where VNFs are deployed as virtual machines or containers, and when SRv6 proxies are involved.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a path tracing solution that uses a Midpoint Compressed Data (MCD) stack with a Wide Local Path Tracing Identification (WL PT ID) to record and analyze the path of data packets through NFV chains, allowing for the collection of proof of transit and processing time, leveraging Software Defined Networking (SDN) Controller capabilities to identify packet trajectories and processing times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Network Function Virtualization is used to virtualize network services on commodity hardware, then scalability and agility are improved, but there is no guarantee that packets traverse the correct Virtual Network Functions in the intended path
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism by inserting path tracing packets that carry identification information through the NFV chain. Each VNF records its processing in the packet, and the controller collects and verifies this information to confirm packets traversed the correct path, providing feedback on actual packet flow
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary path tracing packet as a mediator between the controller and VNFs. This packet carries controller-generated identification information through the NFV chain, enabling verification of packet paths without requiring direct communication between the controller and each VNF
2Device complexity
If Virtual Network Functions are deployed as virtual machines or containers in a virtual environment, then resource consolidation and flexibility are improved, but it becomes impossible to know how long packets take for VNF processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having each VNF record its processing timestamp and identification information in the path tracing packet as the packet passes through. This pre-recording of timing data enables later analysis of processing times without requiring real-time monitoring infrastructure
3Extent of automation
If SRv6 proxies are used to steer packets through NFV chains, then network automation and programmability are improved, but there is no way to detect whether packets go through the right chain or how long it takes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual packet path verification with an automated path tracing mechanism. The controller automatically generates path tracing packets with identification information, and the system automatically collects and verifies path information from VNFs, eliminating the need for manual verification
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for monitoring data transport in a network virtualization function chain (chain). A path tracing packet is generated having a Midpoint Compressed Data (MCD) to collect path tracing information of the chain. The network virtualization function node is configured to record an MCD containing Wide Local Path Tracing Identification (WL PT ID). The WL PT ID includes a first field having a value that indicates that a non-standard path tracing format is to be used and a second field that indicates a particular path tracing format to be used. The path tracing packet is passed through the chain and is received back after passing through the chain. Data collected by the path tracing packet is then analyzed to determine which network virtualization function nodes and chains the path tracing packet passed through and the amount of time taken for the path tracing packet to pass through the chain.