Radio Network Node Continuous Deployment via User Plane Tunnel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Operations and Maintenance (O&M) architectures in telecommunications networks are not suited for continuous deployment of software updates and diagnostic data transfer, requiring manual intervention, multiple security layers, and high costs due to the complexity of configuring external access for radio network nodes.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using an existing user plane interface to establish a secure connection between a radio network node and a Continuous Deployment server via the core network, mimicking a mobile terminal to utilize existing internet connections and create a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for secure data transfer, thereby bypassing traditional O&M network security gates and automating the deployment process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the O&M interface is used for software deployment and data transfer, then security is maintained through multiple security layers, but deployment complexity and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a tunnel interface as an intermediary between the radio network node and the external network. This tunnel acts as a secure gateway that bypasses the complex O&M security layers while maintaining security through encapsulation. The tunnel interface creates a direct communication path that avoids the need to configure multiple security credentials and gateways required by the traditional O&M interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the security function from the O&M interface and relocates it to the tunnel interface. By separating the security mechanism from the deployment path, the system maintains security requirements while eliminating the complexity of O&M authentication and authorization layers. The tunnel interface handles security independently, allowing straightforward software deployment without navigating O&M security gates.
2Reliability
If manual configuration of O&M network access is performed, then security credentials can be verified, but deployment time and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the radio network node to self-configure the tunnel interface using automated procedures. Instead of requiring manual configuration of security credentials and network access parameters, the system uses automated discovery and setup mechanisms. The node can automatically establish the tunnel connection and configure necessary parameters, eliminating manual intervention while maintaining security through automated verification processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary configuration of tunnel interface parameters and security credentials before actual software deployment begins. By pre-establishing the tunnel connection and verifying security credentials in advance, the system avoids time-consuming manual configuration during the deployment process. The tunnel is prepared and validated beforehand, allowing rapid software transfer and installation once the connection is established.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the O&M architecture is used for continuous deployment, then existing infrastructure can be leveraged, but automation capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the tunnel interface a universal communication path that can handle multiple functions: software deployment, diagnostic data transfer, performance monitoring, and configuration updates. Unlike the O&M interface which is optimized for specific maintenance tasks, the tunnel interface provides a general-purpose communication channel that supports continuous deployment workflows and automated operations across different network elements and scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic tunnel establishment and teardown capabilities that adapt to deployment needs. The tunnel interface can be dynamically created, configured, and removed based on real-time deployment requirements. This dynamic behavior enables automated deployment processes to provision connections on-demand, transfer software, and clean up resources without manual intervention, transforming the static O&M architecture into a dynamic automated system.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments herein relate to a method for performing continuous deployment and feedback between a radio network node (110) and a Continuous Deployment server (120). The radio network node (110) is configured to mimic a behavior of a mobile terminal (130) towards a core network. The radio network node sends a message comprising a request to establish an end-to-end connection with the CD server to a core network node (140). The message further comprises a mobile identity identifying the radio network node (110) as a mobile terminal. The radio network node receives an access bearer establishing a user plane connection between radio network node (110) and the core network node (140) over a user plane interface, from the core network node (140). The radio network node establishes a communication channel (160) between the radio network node (110) and the CD server (120) over the user plane interface and an external packet switched network (150). The radio network node exchanges (5040) information between the radio network node (110) and the CD server (120) over the established communication channel (160). Embodiments herein further relate to a method performed by a CD server, a radio network node and a CD server.