PMTU Discovery via Dedicated Packets to Reduce IPv6 Delays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining path maximum transmission unit (MTU) in information handling systems are inefficient, leading to delays and potential failures, especially in IPv6 networks, due to the repeated dropping of packets and reliance on ICMP messages, which can fail to reach the source device.
Innovation Solution
An information handling system that includes a network device with a PMTU table associating destination addresses with MTU values, where a PMTU send packet is sent to determine the MTU of a path, and a PMTU receive packet is used to update the table with the received MTU value, optimizing packet sizing and reducing delays by directly communicating MTU information between source and destination devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current ICMP-based PMTU discovery methods are used, then packet transmission can occur, but delays and packet losses occur due to repeated packet dropping and ICMP message failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new PMTU packet type that serves as an intermediary message format between source and destination devices. This PMTU packet carries PMTU information directly without relying on ICMP message mechanisms, thereby improving reliability and reducing delays in PMTU discovery while maintaining compatibility with existing network infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the message format parameter from ICMP-based to a dedicated PMTU packet structure. This parameter change enables direct carrying of PMTU information in the packet header, eliminating the need for separate ICMP error messages and reducing the time and reliability issues associated with ICMP-based discovery
2Adaptability or versatility
If PMTU information is not cached, then network adaptability is maintained, but repeated PMTU discovery increases network traffic and processing overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by caching PMTU information in a PMTU information cache after initial discovery. This allows subsequent packets to the same destination to use the cached PMTU value without repeating the discovery process, improving processing efficiency while maintaining adaptability through periodic cache validation and updates
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the source device receives PMTU information from the destination device and updates its cache accordingly. This feedback loop ensures that cached information remains current and accurate, balancing the need for efficiency with network adaptability
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system is provided. The information handling system includes a plurality of network devices. One of the plurality of network devices is a source device and another of the plurality of network devices is a destination device. If path maximum transmission unit (PMTU) information for a path between the source device and the destination device is not known, the source device sends a PMTU send packet to the destination device, and the destination device sends a PMTU receive packet with a received PMTU value to the source device. Other associated systems and methods for PMTU discovery are also provided.