Network Localization via Probe-Based Location Identifiers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current network localization methods in SD-WANs rely on geolocation or IP addresses, which are often unavailable or inaccurate, making it difficult to determine the optimal network configuration for ensuring quality of service (QoS) across different locations.
Innovation Solution
A device generates location identifiers based on probe results from multiple entities in the network, allowing it to select and deploy configurations to other nodes based on their proximity, using a predictive routing engine to optimize application performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If geolocation or IP addresses are used to identify network endpoints, then network localization can be performed, but the accuracy and reliability of location identification deteriorates due to unavailability or misallocation of such information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces probe results as an intermediary mechanism to indirectly determine network location. Instead of directly using unreliable geolocation or IP data, the system sends probes to multiple entities and uses the responses as mediators to infer accurate location identifiers, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and information availability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical/geolocation-based location identification system with a network-based probing system. Instead of relying on physical location data (geolocation) or network assignment data (IP addresses), the system substitutes a dynamic probing mechanism that actively queries network entities to derive location information, thereby improving both accuracy and reliability
2Reliability
If network configurations are optimized for specific locations, then quality of service improves, but the complexity of managing multiple location-specific configurations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter used for configuration selection from static geolocation/IP data to dynamic location identifiers derived from probe results. This parameter change enables the system to maintain location-specific optimizations while simplifying management, as the new parameter is automatically generated through probing rather than manually assigned
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by automatically generating location identifiers through probing and selecting appropriate configurations without manual intervention. Each endpoint autonomously performs probing to determine its location and retrieves the suitable configuration, eliminating the need for complex centralized management of location-specific settings
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a device obtains probe results generated by probing a plurality of entities in a network from a first node in the network. The device generates a location identifier for the first node that represents its location in the network, based on the probe results. The device selects a configuration associated with the first node for use by a second node in the network, based on a difference between the location identifier for the first node and a location identifier for the second node. The device causes the configuration to be deployed to the second node.