OpenFlow OAM Packet Handling via Packet Inject Logic

The patent segments the packet handling process by introducing a dedicated Packet Inject Logic (PIL) module that operates independently from the main OpenFlow processing pipeline. This module specifically handles OAM packet identification, injection, and de-multiplexing, while the rest of the system continues to operate according to standard OpenFlow 1.1 specifications. This segmentation allows OAM functionality to be added without complicating the core protocol.

The patent introduces an intermediary Packet Inject Logic (PIL) module that acts as a mediator between incoming packets and the OpenFlow processing pipeline. This intermediary module intercepts packets, identifies OAM packets using matching fields, and directs them to appropriate handling routines without requiring changes to the underlying OpenFlow specification. The PIL module serves as a bridge that enables OAM functionality while maintaining protocol simplicity.

The Packet Inject Logic (PIL) module is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple OAM operations including packet identification, injection, and de-multiplexing within a single unified module. By consolidating these functions rather than creating separate modules for each operation, the patent achieves enhanced packet handling capability while minimizing the increase in overall system complexity.

The PIL module implements self-service mechanisms by autonomously identifying OAM packets through matching field analysis and automatically directing them to appropriate handling routines without requiring external control or configuration. This self-service capability reduces the operational complexity of managing the extended functionality, as the module manages its own operations independently.

The patent employs a metaphorical 'color change' approach by utilizing matching fields that are not typically considered during standard data packet handling to create distinctive identifiers for OAM packets. Similar to how color changes can signal different meanings, these unused matching fields serve as unique markers that allow the PIL module to easily distinguish OAM packets from regular data packets without adding complex identification logic.

The patent changes the parameter space used for packet identification by leveraging matching fields that are normally ignored in data packet processing. By repurposing these existing parameters for OAM packet identification, the system achieves accurate packet differentiation without introducing additional complex matching structures or new identification mechanisms.

The patent implements preliminary action by having the Packet Inject Logic (PIL) module pre-identify and pre-direct OAM packets to the same forwarding paths as their corresponding data packets before the actual forwarding occurs. This preliminary routing decision ensures fate sharing - that OAM packets follow the same path as data packets - without requiring complex real-time processing or coordination during packet forwarding, thus maintaining processing efficiency.

The system employs feedback mechanisms where the PIL module monitors the forwarding decisions made for data packets and uses this information to ensure OAM packets receive identical treatment. By implementing feedback loops that verify fate sharing compliance, the system achieves high monitoring accuracy while keeping processing complexity manageable through automated verification rather than manual configuration.