Network Service Header Relaying for Service Function Degradation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Service Function Chaining systems face challenges in detecting and managing service function node degradation, leading to potential bottlenecks and failures in data flow processing, as existing methods only perform low-level 'ping' tests without conveying detailed status information.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating status indicators in Network Service Headers within peer detection messages to convey detailed performance information, allowing service function nodes to react by altering the Service Function Path or selecting alternative nodes, using mechanisms like GRE keepalive and R-U-THERE message exchanges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If low-level ping tests are used to detect service function node status, then the detection method is simple, but detailed status information cannot be conveyed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses peer detection messages as an intermediary carrier to transmit status indicators between service function nodes. These messages contain Network Service Headers with status indicators that convey detailed serviceability information without requiring complex direct monitoring mechanisms at each node
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where service function nodes send peer detection messages containing status indicators about their service function performance. This feedback loop allows the network to automatically detect and respond to service function degradation, transforming static ping tests into dynamic status reporting
2Reliability
If service function node degradation is not detected, then the system operates simply, but bottlenecks and failures in data flow processing occur
Solution Approach 1:
Service function nodes autonomously generate and send peer detection messages containing their own status indicators. Each node self-monitors its service function performance and proactively reports status to neighboring nodes, eliminating the need for external monitoring infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements proactive degradation detection by continuously exchanging peer detection messages before complete failures occur. Service function nodes report status indicators in advance, allowing the network to reroute traffic or activate backup functions before bottlenecks impact data flow processing
3Adaptability or versatility
If detailed status information is conveyed through peer detection messages, then service function node degradation can be managed proactively, but the message structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The Network Service Header is designed as a universal structure that carries both traditional routing information and status indicators. This multi-functional header serves dual purposes: guiding packet forwarding and conveying service function serviceability status, eliminating the need for separate message structures
Data Source
AI summary
A network node in a service function chain system receives a peer detection packet from a service function device in a service function path. The peer detection packet includes an inner packet with a header, such as a network service header. The network node detects a status indicator in the header that indicates a degradation in performing a service function at the service function device. The network node adjusts the service function path to compensate for the degradation in performing the service function at the service function device.