Proxy Endpoint Bypass Through Co-Located Hop Merging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of multiple proxy servers in computer networks introduces increased network latency between source and target computers due to the need for network packets to be received and processed at each proxy server, which is detrimental to service providers offering proxy services.
Innovation Solution
Implement a methodology in a proxy network that allows for the determination of co-located proxy endpoints, enabling them to bypass intermediate proxy endpoints, thereby reducing the number of hops and minimizing latency by having current endpoints perform the functions of both themselves and the next endpoint, using the same network address.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple proxy servers are used in a proxy network, then the anonymity and security of source computers are improved, but the network latency increases due to multiple processing hops
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple proxy endpoints into a single co-located proxy endpoint. When two proxy endpoints are detected to be co-located (at the same physical location with the same network interface), they are combined into one endpoint that performs the functions of both. This eliminates redundant processing hops while maintaining the anonymity and security benefits of using multiple proxies, as the combined endpoint still masks the source computer's identity from the target computer.
2Reliability
If multiple proxy servers are used in a proxy network, then the security and masking of source computer identity are improved, but the number of processing hops increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines co-located proxy endpoints into a single endpoint, reducing the number of hops in the proxy network. The system detects when proxy endpoints are co-located by comparing network interface identifiers and merges them, thereby simplifying the network path while preserving security. The merged endpoint continues to mask the source computer's identity, maintaining security without the complexity of multiple sequential hops.
3Loss of time
If co-located proxy endpoints are merged, then the network latency is reduced, but the system complexity increases due to the need to detect and manage co-located endpoints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary detection of co-located proxy endpoints by comparing network interface identifiers before establishing proxy connections. This advance detection allows the system to merge endpoints proactively, avoiding the need for complex runtime management. The preliminary action of comparing identifiers and merging co-located endpoints simplifies the overall system by preventing redundant hops from being established in the first place.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses network interface identifiers as copies or representations of physical endpoint locations. By comparing these identifier copies, the system can determine co-location without complex physical inspection. This copying approach simplifies the detection and merging process, reducing the management complexity while effectively reducing network latency through intelligent endpoint consolidation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A computer system providing a methodology for bypassing an endpoint in a proxy network. The system and method reduce the number of endpoints in the proxy network between a source computer and a target computer through which network packets must traverse, thereby reducing the latency of information transfer between the source and target computers.