Peer Aware Load Distribution for Diameter Message Processors
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Solution Overview
Problem
The Diameter protocol lacks a method for load distribution in distributed architectures, leading to potential single points of failure when all traffic is directed to a single message processor, which can significantly impact network reliability and user services.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a peer aware load distribution algorithm that assigns Diameter sessions to multiple message processors based on peer groups, considering both load and user-defined criteria to distribute traffic among available processors, thereby avoiding a single point of failure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If all Diameter traffic is directed to a single message processor, then the system structure is simple, but a single point of failure is created that can significantly impact network reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the message processing function by introducing multiple message processors (MPs) instead of relying on a single processor. Each MP can handle Diameter sessions independently, dividing the processing load and eliminating the single point of failure. The load balancer segments the traffic distribution task, assigning sessions to different MPs based on peer group information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the load distribution parameter from simple round-robin or random assignment to peer-aware assignment. By incorporating peer group information as a distribution parameter, the system can intelligently route traffic to appropriate MPs while maintaining load balance, thus improving reliability without excessive complexity.
2Reliability
If a peer aware load distribution algorithm is implemented to distribute traffic among multiple message processors, then network reliability is improved by avoiding single points of failure, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load balancer serves as an intermediary component that manages the complexity of peer-aware load distribution. It receives Diameter requests, determines the appropriate peer group, selects a suitable message processor based on distribution algorithms, and forwards the request. This intermediary handles the complex decision-making logic, keeping the overall system structure manageable while achieving reliable load distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The load balancer performs multiple functions: it acts as a DNS resolver, maintains peer group information, implements load distribution algorithms, and manages session state. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single component, the patent avoids the need for each message processor to independently handle complex distribution logic, thereby managing system complexity while improving reliability.
3Reliability
If Diameter sessions are assigned to multiple message processors using peer group information, then service continuity is improved when processors become unavailable, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring appropriate distribution targets increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing peer group information and maintaining a mapping between peer groups and message processors. The load balancer proactively monitors the availability of message processors and pre-adapts the distribution algorithm based on current system state. This preliminary preparation simplifies real-time decision-making and reduces the difficulty of detecting appropriate distribution targets during active traffic handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The load distribution system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the load balancer continuously monitors message processor availability and performance. Based on this feedback, it dynamically adjusts the distribution algorithm to route traffic to available processors. The system also receives feedback from message processors about their current load state, enabling intelligent adaptation that simplifies target selection while maintaining service continuity.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for peer aware load distribution are disclosed. According to one method, the method includes steps occurring at a DSR comprising a plurality of message processors. The method also includes receiving Diameter messages associated with two or more Diameter sessions, wherein each of the two or more Diameter sessions is associated with a first peer group and assigning, using the first peer group and a peer aware load distribution algorithm, the two or more Diameter sessions to two or more message processors of the plurality of message processors, wherein the peer aware load distribution algorithm distributes Diameter sessions associated with the first peer group among the two or more message processors for avoiding a single point of failure.