SDN Control Channel Segmentation for Flow Classification Bottleneck
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Software Defined Networks (SDNs), the existing data packet processing methods often lead to waste of control device resources and extra bandwidth consumption, causing the control device to become a network bottleneck, especially in equal mode where multiple control devices independently manage switching devices.
Innovation Solution
Establishing separate control channels between switching devices and control devices, allowing switching devices to send data packets matching specific match fields to the appropriate control devices through unique identifiers, thereby reducing processing pressure on controllers and improving network performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control devices independently process data packets in equal mode, then control permission is distributed, but control device resources are wasted and bandwidth consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control function by introducing multiple control devices that can independently process different data packets. Each control device is assigned specific match fields and corresponding control channels, dividing the centralized control workload into distributed segments. This segmentation allows parallel processing of different packet types while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by assigning different match fields to different control devices based on their capabilities and responsibilities. Each control device specializes in processing packets with specific characteristics (e.g., different protocols, destinations, or priorities), optimizing resource utilization and reducing redundant processing across the control plane.
2Adaptability or versatility
If control devices independently generate flow entries, then control flexibility is improved, but control channel bandwidth consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring flow entries in the switching device based on predicted traffic patterns and control device capabilities. The switching device maintains a flow table with pre-established rules that route packets to appropriate control devices, reducing the need for real-time control channel communication and minimizing bandwidth consumption while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching device acts as an intermediary that receives packets, determines the appropriate control device based on match fields, and routes packets accordingly. This intermediary function reduces direct communication overhead between control devices and the network, optimizing control channel bandwidth utilization while preserving control flexibility.
3Reliability
If the switching device sends packets to multiple control devices, then control redundancy is achieved, but processing pressure on controllers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements asymmetry by assigning different match field criteria to different control devices, creating an asymmetric distribution of processing responsibilities. Instead of symmetric replication where all control devices handle all packet types, each device is optimized for specific packet characteristics, reducing redundant processing while maintaining reliability through diversified control paths.
Data Source
AI summary
A method executed by a control device in a software defined network where, according to the method, after establishing a control channel with a switching device, the control device obtains an identifier of the control channel. Then, the control device generates a flow entry, where the flow entry includes a match field and the identifier of the control channel. Further, the control device sends the flow entry to the switching device, where the flow entry is used to instruct the switching device to send, to the control device using the control channel represented by the identifier of the control channel, a data packet that matches the match field. Hence, classification of a new flow is completed on a switching device side.