Priority-Based Network Bandwidth Allocation Across Virtual Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network bandwidth allocation methods in software-defined data centers fail to efficiently manage varying network bandwidth requirements of virtual machines, leading to inefficient resource utilization and manual configuration challenges, especially when dealing with hundreds or thousands of VMs.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a priority-based network bandwidth allocation approach using multiple priority levels and associated policies to dynamically manage network resources, allowing for more granular control and reducing the need for manual configuration on a per-VM basis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual configuration is used for each VM's network bandwidth allocation, then individual control is achieved, but administrative complexity increases significantly when dealing with hundreds or thousands of VMs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple VMs with similar network bandwidth requirements into network segments or groups. Instead of configuring each VM individually, the system applies bandwidth allocation policies to entire segments, dramatically reducing administrative overhead while maintaining effective control over hundreds or thousands of virtual machines.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates universal network bandwidth allocation policies that can be applied across multiple VMs and network segments. A single policy configuration can manage bandwidth allocation for numerous VMs simultaneously, making the system scalable and reducing the need for repetitive manual configuration tasks.
2Productivity
If equal network bandwidth allocation is provided to all VMs, then simplicity is maintained, but resource utilization efficiency deteriorates during periods of network contention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements differentiated bandwidth allocation policies tailored to specific network segments and VM priorities. High-priority VMs receive guaranteed minimum bandwidth and can over-utilize during contention, while low-priority VMs receive baseline allocation. This local customization of quality of service parameters optimizes overall network resource utilization efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic bandwidth allocation that automatically adjusts resource distribution based on network conditions and VM priorities. During periods of network contention, the system dynamically reallocates bandwidth from low-priority to high-priority VMs, maximizing productivity without requiring manual intervention or complex static configurations.
3Reliability
If priority-based allocation with multiple levels is implemented, then quality of service is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into multiple priority levels (e.g., high, medium, low priority) and applies differentiated bandwidth allocation policies to each segment. This segmentation enables the system to provide quality of service guarantees to critical applications while maintaining manageable system complexity through structured, hierarchical priority management rather than uncontrolled individual VM configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
Example methods and systems for priority-based network bandwidth allocation are described. In one example, a first computer system may detect an event indicating that network bandwidth allocation is required for a virtualized computing instance. The first computer system may identify, from multiple priority levels, a first priority level that is associated with (a) the virtualized computing instance, (b) a logical network element to which the virtualized computing instance is attached, or (c) a group that includes the virtualized computing instance or the logical network element. The first computer system may obtain network bandwidth capacity information associated with physical network adapter(s) capable of forwarding traffic associated with the virtualized computing instance. Based on the first priority level and the network bandwidth capacity information, the first computer system may configure a priority-based network bandwidth allocation policy that includes parameter(s) applicable to the traffic associated with the virtualized computing instance.