Overlay Network Deployment via Tunnel Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network deployment methods, such as hardware bridges and VPNs, face limitations in interoperability, user control, and complexity, especially in large networks, and require specialized skills for setup and maintenance, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a virtual private network (VPN) using a tunnel server and gateway devices allows for the creation of a logical, secure, and scalable private network across geographies, enabling communication between broadcast domains without the need for traditional routing, using software applications to manage and provision network services and resources dynamically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hardware bridges or VPNs are used for network deployment, then network connectivity between different physical networks is achieved, but device complexity and difficulty of setup increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical hardware bridges and manual VPN configurations with a software-based overlay network system. The overlay network uses virtualization to create logical network connections that run atop existing physical infrastructure, eliminating the need for physical hardware bridges and complex manual routing configurations. This software abstraction layer simplifies deployment while maintaining reliable network connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an overlay network as an intermediary layer between physical networks. This overlay network acts as a mediator that simplifies connectivity by providing a unified logical network space, where devices can communicate through virtual network interfaces rather than requiring direct physical bridging or complex VPN handshakes. The overlay network manages connectivity semantics automatically, reducing deployment complexity.
2Reliability
If specialized skills are used for setup and maintenance of traditional networks, then network security and performance are maintained, but cost and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The overlay network system implements self-service capabilities through automated provisioning and management. The system can automatically discover devices, assign virtual network identifiers, establish connections, and manage security policies without requiring manual intervention from specialized network administrators. This automation maintains security through consistent policy enforcement while dramatically reducing setup and maintenance time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary configuration of network security policies and connectivity rules at the overlay network layer. Security credentials, access control lists, and routing policies are pre-established in the overlay network before devices need to connect. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for time-consuming on-site configuration by specialized personnel, as devices can self-configure using pre-defined overlay network parameters.
3Ease of operation
If traditional routing is used for communication between broadcast domains, then network traffic is directed, but device complexity and interoperability limitations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a logical dimension to network communication by implementing an overlay network that operates above the physical network layer. Instead of relying on traditional routing protocols that operate at the network layer, the overlay network creates a virtual dimension where devices can communicate using simplified logical addressing and connectivity semantics. This additional layer abstracts away routing complexity while enabling seamless communication between broadcast domains.
Data Source
AI summary
Briefly, methods and/or apparatuses of virtual deployment of network-related features are disclosed.