Point of Presence Management in Content Delivery Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Content providers and CDN service providers face challenges in efficiently managing DNS queries and resource requests across geographically distributed POP locations, leading to strain on computing resources and potential delays in content delivery.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that selects suitable POP locations for processing DNS queries and resource requests based on geographic criteria, performance thresholds, and testing criteria, using logic to route queries to the most appropriate DNS servers and resource cache components within the CDN service provider domain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If content is delivered from a single content provider computing device, then content delivery is simple to manage, but computing resources are strained and delivery latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the content delivery system by introducing multiple Point of Presence (POP) locations distributed geographically. Each POP contains local DNS servers and resource cache components that independently handle content requests, dividing the monolithic content provider into distributed units that reduce strain on any single device while improving delivery efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a geographic dimension to content delivery by distributing POP locations across different physical locations. This spatial distribution allows content to be delivered from the nearest POP to the client, reducing latency and improving delivery efficiency without significantly increasing system complexity
2Loss of time
If multiple POP locations are used for content delivery, then delivery efficiency and reduced latency are achieved, but managing DNS queries and routing across POPs increases system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having DNS servers at each POP location pre-configured with knowledge of their geographic region and capabilities. When a DNS query arrives, the system can immediately route it to the most appropriate POP based on pre-established criteria (geographic proximity, resource availability, load conditions) without complex real-time decision-making, thus reducing latency while managing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary routing mechanism that mediates between client DNS queries and POP locations. This intermediary layer handles the complexity of routing decisions by evaluating multiple criteria (geographic location, resource cache status, server load) and selecting the optimal POP, thereby reducing delivery latency while containing management complexity at the intermediary layer
3Speed
If content requests are routed to the nearest POP location, then delivery speed is improved, but ensuring service level agreements and performance thresholds requires complex monitoring and routing logic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by evaluating multiple routing parameters simultaneously (geographic distance, resource cache hit rate, server load, network conditions) rather than relying solely on geographic proximity. This multi-parameter approach allows the system to optimize delivery speed while meeting service level agreements, with the complexity managed through structured parameter evaluation rather than simple nearest-neighbor routing
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for the management of client computing device DNS queries and subsequent resource requests within a content delivery network service provider domain are provided. The management of the DNS queries can include the selection of computing devices corresponding to various Point of Presence locations for processing DNS queries. Additionally, the management of the content requests can include the selection of computing devices corresponding to resource cache components corresponding to various Point of Presence locations for providing requested content. The selection of the computing devices can incorporate logic related to geographic criteria, performance threshold criteria, testing criteria, and the like.