Opportunistic Peer-to-Peer Synchronization for Data Transfer Speed
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current synchronization systems face inefficiencies in data transfer speed and cost due to their either client-server or peer-to-peer modes, with client-server being slow and expensive over the Internet and peer-to-peer requiring devices to be on the same local network for synchronization.
Innovation Solution
An opportunistic peer-to-peer synchronization method that allows client devices to synchronize either with a peer device or a master server, depending on availability, by advertising domains on local networks and using identity verification for secure synchronization sessions, enabling seamless switching between modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If client-server synchronization is used over the Internet, then data can be synchronized between devices even when they cannot reach each other directly, but data transfer speed becomes slow and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects between client-server and peer-to-peer synchronization modes based on real-time network conditions and device availability. Clients can switch between synchronizing with the master server over the Internet or with local peers on the same network, optimizing both speed and availability adaptively
Solution Approach 2:
The master server acts as an intermediary that enables synchronization between devices that cannot directly communicate, while local peers serve as intermediaries for fast data transfer when available. The system uses the intermediary appropriately based on whether direct peer-to-peer connection is possible
2Productivity
If peer-to-peer synchronization is used on local area network, then data transfer speed increases significantly, but devices can only synchronize when both are running and connected to the same network
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts synchronization mode based on peer availability. When peers are available on the local network, it uses peer-to-peer mode for fast transfer; when peers are unavailable, it automatically falls back to client-server mode to maintain synchronization capability
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in peer-to-peer mode for fast local transfers and in client-server mode for remote synchronization. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt to different network scenarios and device availability conditions
3Productivity
If client devices synchronize with peer devices on local network, then data transfer is faster and cheaper, but additional complexity is required for domain advertising and identity verification
Solution Approach 1:
Devices automatically advertise their available domains and synchronize with peers without requiring manual configuration. The identity verification process is automated through cryptographic protocols, reducing the perceived complexity for users while maintaining security
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an opportunistic peer-to-peer synchronization method, where client devices can either synchronize with a peer device or a master server, depending on which is the best available option. Client devices monitor synchronization information provided by peer client devices to determine if data that the client device desires to synchronize can be synchronized with a peer client device. If a peer device is available for synchronization, then a client device will synchronize with such peer device. Otherwise, the client device will synchronize with the master server or other device. Client devices can seamlessly switch between peer-to-peer synchronization and client-server synchronization, even during the middle of synchronization session.