SDN Controller Network-Wide Request Aggregation in ICN
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current information-centric networks (ICNs) face inefficiencies in resource utilization due to the limitations of per-node request aggregation, leading to increased network traffic and unnecessary transmission of request and response messages, especially in scenarios like live streaming where multiple requests for the same data object arrive simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
Implementing software-defined networking (SDN) with a centralized SDN controller to perform network-wide request aggregation, which detects duplicate requests, decides on request delays, and optimizes routing and duplication of named data objects based on a definable rule, using a Pending-Request Table (PRT) and cost metrics for efficient resource management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If per-node request aggregation is used in ICN, then each node can independently manage its requests, but network traffic increases and resource utilization decreases due to multiple transmissions of the same data objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the request aggregation function from individual nodes to a centralized SDN controller. The controller consolidates multiple requests for the same named data object across the entire network, ensuring that data objects are transmitted only once regardless of how many requestors exist. This resolves the contradiction by combining distributed request management capabilities into a centralized coordination mechanism that eliminates redundant transmissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The SDN controller acts as an intermediary between requestors and data objects. It receives requests from multiple nodes, performs network-wide aggregation, and coordinates the single transmission of data objects to all requesting nodes. This intermediary mechanism enables efficient resource utilization while maintaining the ability to serve multiple distributed requestors.
2Reliability
If multiple requests for the same NDO are forwarded independently to the source, then each request is handled individually, but this leads to redundant transmissions and increased network traffic
Solution Approach 1:
The SDN controller merges multiple independent requests for the same named data object into a single coordinated transmission. By tracking pending requests in its Pending-Request Table and identifying duplicates, the controller ensures that only one copy of each data object is transmitted across the network, thereby reducing network traffic while maintaining reliable delivery to all requestors.
Solution Approach 2:
The SDN controller performs preliminary analysis of incoming requests before forwarding them to the source. It checks the Pending-Request Table to determine if a request for the same data object is already being processed, and if so, it delays or redirects the duplicate request. This preliminary action prevents redundant transmissions before they occur.
3Productivity
If request aggregation is performed at each node, then local requests can be managed efficiently, but network-wide optimization is not achieved leading to suboptimal routing and multiple transmissions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the request aggregation function from individual nodes and centralizes it in the SDN controller. This extraction allows each node to focus on simple request forwarding while the controller handles the complex task of network-wide aggregation and optimization. The result is improved network-wide productivity without adding complexity to individual network devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The SDN controller serves as an intermediary that coordinates between multiple nodes and the data source. It receives request information from nodes, performs centralized aggregation analysis, and determines optimal routing decisions. This intermediary approach achieves network-wide optimization without requiring complex coordination protocols between individual nodes.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating an information-centric network (ICN), wherein at least one named data object (NDO) is addressable, and wherein after an initial request, a request aggregation of subsequent requests for the at least one NDO is performed according to a definable rule. The method includes implementing software-defined networking (SDN) in the ICN with an SDN controller, and performing a network-wide request aggregation by the SDN controller.