Distributed P2P NAT Traversal via Endpoint Relay
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Solution Overview
Problem
In peer-to-peer (P2P) networks, communication between endpoints behind different NAT routers relies heavily on protocol servers for message forwarding, leading to increased workload and potential network failures if the servers malfunction.
Innovation Solution
A method where a tracker/coordinator identifies and assigns network terminals capable of forwarding messages to assist those incapable, establishing direct connections and reducing the reliance on protocol servers for message transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a protocol server is used to forward messages between endpoints behind different NAT routers, then message transmission can be achieved, but the workload of the protocol server increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the message forwarding function from the protocol server and distributes it to multiple endpoint devices. Instead of one centralized server handling all forwarding, each endpoint that can forward messages does so locally, dividing the workload across multiple nodes in the network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables endpoints to serve themselves by performing message forwarding operations. Devices that are capable of forwarding messages do so for themselves and potentially for other endpoints, eliminating the need for external protocol server assistance for those capable devices.
2Reliability
If a protocol server is used to forward messages between endpoints behind different NAT routers, then message transmission can be achieved, but the system becomes vulnerable to network failures if the server malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent breaks the centralized message forwarding function into distributed segments across multiple endpoints. This segmentation creates redundancy, so if one protocol server fails, other endpoints capable of forwarding can continue to operate, maintaining system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces capable endpoints as intermediary devices that can forward messages between endpoints behind different NAT routers. These intermediaries replace the single point of failure (centralized protocol server) with multiple potential mediators, reducing system vulnerability.
3Reliability
If all messages must be forwarded via a protocol server, then NAT traversal can be achieved, but maintenance and setup costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables endpoints to perform their own NAT traversal and message forwarding operations when capable, eliminating the need for expensive centralized protocol server infrastructure. This self-service approach reduces both setup and maintenance costs while maintaining NAT traversal capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the system by allowing endpoints to operate in different modes: some use protocol servers when necessary, while others perform autonomous forwarding. This parameter flexibility optimizes cost efficiency by using centralized services only when absolutely necessary.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is to provide a method for enabling a tracker/coordinator in a P2P system to receive server address queries from network devices through Internet; provide address of a protocol server to the network devices according to the server address queries, so as for the network devices to conduct NAT behavior tests on NAT routers connected therewith through the protocol server; assigning a first network device with the router incapable of forwarding messages to a second network device with the router capable of forwarding messages according to the test results; providing a mapped address of a port of the second network device to a third network device, when receiving a port query from the third network device and determining that the port query corresponds to the first network device, so as for the third network device to directly connect with the first network device through the second network device.