Reconfigurable Packet Header Parser for Protocol Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packet header parsers, especially those using hard-coded state machines in ASICs, are inflexible and unable to support new or unknown network protocols, requiring reprogramming which is complex, power-intensive, and often requires field deployment by skilled technicians, and are inefficient at high data rates.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable packet header parser (CPHP) that combines hard-coded and programmable logic, allowing remote configuration through a command packet parser and programmable memory registers, enabling parsing of both default and new header types, and supporting additional protocols and header transitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a hard coded header parsing state machine is used in ASIC, then parsing speed and efficiency are improved, but adaptability to new protocols deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic packet header parser that can switch between hard-coded parsing paths for known protocols and programmable parsing paths for new or unknown protocols. The system dynamically adapts its parsing behavior based on protocol type recognition, maintaining high speed for common protocols while enabling flexibility for emerging protocols without requiring full reprogramming of the ASIC.
2Adaptability or versatility
If software-based packet header parsers are used, then re-programmability is improved, but processing speed and power efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the packet header parsing function into two distinct components: a hard-coded state machine for rapid parsing of known protocols and a programmable logic unit for handling new or unknown protocols. This segmentation allows the system to use the high-speed hard-coded path for the majority of traffic while retaining re-programmability through the programmable logic unit when needed.
3Device complexity
If hard coded parsing logic is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to new protocols deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary protocol type recognition mechanism that sits between the hard-coded parser and the programmable logic unit. This intermediary component recognizes unknown protocol types and routes them to the programmable logic unit for adaptive parsing, allowing the hard-coded portion to remain simple while enabling new protocol support through the intermediary routing mechanism.
4Adaptability or versatility
If field reprogramming is required for new protocols, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation and deployment complexity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service configuration mechanism where the packet header parser automatically detects and adapts to new protocol types encountered in the network traffic. The system uses protocol type recognition to automatically configure the appropriate parsing path without requiring manual field programming or technician intervention, making the system both adaptable and easy to deploy.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and device for configurable parsing of packet headers in a network. A configurable packet header parser (CPHP) includes hard-coded packet header logic implementing a hard-coded state machine and a reconfigurable header parsing logic that is coupled to the hardcoded logic and includes programmable registers. The CPHP is remotely programmable by means of a command packet parser that may receive command packets carrying CPHP configuration data and program the registers with the CPHP data to enable parsing packet including new types of headers. The hybrid hard-coded/programmable CPHP requires only a relatively small number of programmable elements enabling ASIC-based implementation.