SDN Controller Adaptive Service Chain Redefinition
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Solution Overview
Problem
In software-defined networking (SDN), service chains can be disrupted due to overloaded instances of services, leading to delays and inefficiencies, as existing solutions lack adaptability to changing conditions across dispersed geographic locations.
Innovation Solution
An SDN controller dynamically redefines service chains by collecting network data and usage metrics to identify overloaded instances, weighting alternative service instances based on bandwidth, latency, and processing power, and rerouting data paths to avoid overloaded nodes, ensuring optimal data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If service chains are statically configured in SDN, then network management is simplified, but adaptability to changing conditions and overloaded instances is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic service chain configuration where the SDN controller continuously monitors service instance status and automatically reconfigures service chains in response to changing conditions. When an instance becomes overloaded or inaccessible, the controller dynamically updates flow entries to redirect traffic through alternative instances, transforming the static service chain into an adaptive system that responds to real-time network conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the SDN controller receives status information from service instances about their load and accessibility. This feedback loop enables the controller to detect when instances become overloaded and trigger reconfiguration actions, creating a closed-loop control system that continuously optimizes service chain performance based on actual network conditions.
2Reliability
If alternative service instances are not pre-configured, then service chain flexibility is improved, but response time to service failures increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple service instances and establishing flow entry templates for alternative routing paths. When a service instance becomes unavailable, the SDN controller can immediately activate pre-prepared alternative routes without requiring time-consuming path calculation, thus maintaining service continuity and reducing rerouting delay.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides beforehand cushioning by maintaining standby service instances and alternative flow paths in readiness. These redundant resources act as a buffer against service failures, ensuring that when an instance becomes overloaded or inaccessible, traffic can be rapidly redirected through pre-positioned alternatives, cushioning the impact of service disruptions.
3Productivity
If manual service chain reconfiguration is used, then control precision is maintained, but productivity and response speed decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automation where the SDN controller autonomously monitors service instance health, detects overloaded or inaccessible instances, and reconfigures service chains without human intervention. The controller automatically updates flow entries in switches to redirect traffic through alternative instances, enabling rapid automated response to service failures while maintaining network integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical configuration processes with automated electronic control. Instead of requiring operators to manually reconfigure service chains through complex interfaces, the SDN controller electronically programs switches with updated flow entries, substituting human-operated mechanical processes with automated software-based control that operates at network speed.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide methods, computer program products, and systems for fulfilling a service chain request. Embodiments of the present invention can be used to collect network data of a plurality of instances of services and connections between the plurality of instances of services and redefine service chains to direct flow to an alternative instance of a service responsive to determining that an instance of a service in a service chain has become inaccessible. Embodiments of the present invention can be used to fulfill a service chain request and avoid one or more instances of services (and/or connections there between) that could cause a delay between transmitting data packets through the service chain.