Cross-Configuring SDN Network Resources via Probe Packet Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
In software-defined data centers, there is a lack of visibility and end-to-end control over both virtual and physical infrastructure, making it difficult to maintain compatibility and effectiveness of network configurations across virtual and physical networks, leading to issues like switch congestion and Quality of Storage control during traffic events.
Innovation Solution
A network configurer system that automatically detects changes in virtual networks, analyzes the corresponding physical networks, and configures them accordingly, using probe packets and APIs to ensure compatibility and efficient resource management across both domains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If virtual networks are configured independently without physical network visibility, then virtual network configuration flexibility is improved, but network configuration compatibility and effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by having the virtual network configuration system send configuration information to the physical network configuration system, which then detects and analyzes the actual physical network state and returns feedback about compatibility and effectiveness. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that virtual network configurations are adjusted based on real physical network conditions, resolving the contradiction between configuration flexibility and compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary analysis system that sits between the virtual and physical network configuration systems. This intermediary receives configuration information, analyzes it against the physical network state, and determines compatibility before implementation. The intermediary acts as a mediator that translates virtual network intentions into physically-compatible configurations, maintaining both flexibility and reliability.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual configuration methods are used for both virtual and physical networks, then configuration control precision is improved, but operational efficiency and time consumption deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by enabling automatic detection, analysis, and configuration of physical network settings based on virtual network requirements. The physical network configuration system automatically probes the network state, analyzes compatibility, and applies configurations without manual intervention. This self-service mechanism maintains precise control while dramatically improving operational efficiency and reducing time consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies preliminary action by performing automatic compatibility analysis and detection before actual network configuration is implemented. The system pre-analyzes the physical network state, identifies potential compatibility issues, and prepares appropriate configurations in advance. This preliminary action ensures precise control while streamlining the overall configuration process and improving productivity.
3Reliability
If comprehensive network monitoring and analysis is implemented, then network configuration effectiveness is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies segmentation by dividing the network configuration management into distinct functional modules: virtual network configuration, physical network detection, compatibility analysis, and configuration implementation. Each module performs a specific function and interfaces with others through standardized protocols. This segmentation reduces system complexity by creating manageable, independent components while maintaining comprehensive monitoring and analysis capabilities for effective configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus to cross configure network resources of software defined data centers are disclosed. Example instructions cause one or more processors to monitor a component of a network for a probe packet sent to the component. The example instructions cause the one or more processors to, in response to detecting the probe packet, determine whether the probe packet includes a unique source media access control (MAC) address that is included in a probe access control list (ACL), the unique source MAC address included in the probe ACL set by a decision engine. The example instructions cause the one or more processors to, in response to determining that the probe packet does not include the unique source MAC address, record probe packet receipt information indicating that the probe packet did not pass through a network port of the component and transmit the probe packet receipt information to the decision engine.