SDN Reconfiguration Using Evolutionary Search and Distributed Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing software defined networks (SDNs) lack effective methods for dynamically reconfiguring network components to achieve desired performance objectives efficiently and reliably.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method using an evolutionary algorithm, such as a genetic algorithm, to adapt SDN configurations, combined with a distributed database like a blockchain, to evaluate and store candidate configuration changes that improve network performance based on measurable metrics, allowing nodes to continuously optimize configurations towards predefined objectives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional static configuration methods are used in SDNs, then network stability is maintained, but network performance cannot be dynamically optimized towards objective measures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic configuration by allowing SDN network components to be continuously reconfigured based on evolving performance objectives. The system transitions from static configuration to dynamic adaptation where configuration parameters can change over time in response to performance measurements and objective updates, enabling the network to optimize its performance continuously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms by measuring actual network performance against objective measures and using this information to guide configuration adjustments. The system continuously monitors performance metrics and uses this feedback to iteratively improve configuration, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing network conditions and performance requirements.
2Productivity
If frequent reconfiguration is performed to achieve desired performance goals, then network performance improves, but system stability and reliability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by simulating configuration changes in a virtual environment before applying them to the live SDN network. The system evaluates candidate configuration adjustments through simulation to predict their impact on performance and stability, only implementing changes that are likely to improve performance without causing instability, thus preventing harmful reconfigurations before they occur.
3Productivity
If manual configuration adjustment is used, then configuration changes can be made, but the process is time-consuming and cannot achieve rapid performance optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the SDN system to automatically generate, evaluate, and implement configuration adjustments without manual intervention. The system autonomously measures performance, compares it against objectives, identifies necessary configuration changes, and applies them automatically, eliminating the time-consuming manual configuration process and enabling rapid performance optimization.
4Manufacturing precision
If comprehensive performance measurement is implemented to evaluate configuration changes, then configuration accuracy improves, but computational complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the network into manageable components and evaluating configuration changes at component level or in targeted segments rather than requiring comprehensive system-wide measurement for every change. This allows accurate evaluation of configuration impacts while reducing overall computational complexity by focusing measurements on relevant network segments affected by the configuration changes.
Data Source
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AI summary
A computer implemented method of adapting a configuration of a software defined network to improve a measure of network performance towards an objective measure of performance, the network including a plurality of network nodes communicating via the network, the method comprising: each node applying an evolutionary algorithm to generate a candidate adjusted configuration for the network and, responsive to a determination that the candidate provides an improvement to the measure of network performance, the node storing the candidate in a distributed database accessible to the nodes for access by other nodes; each node accessing candidate adjusted configurations in the distributed database and determining a performance of the network provided by each accessed candidate, wherein each node records the determined performance provided by a candidate in the database in association with the candidate, such that a candidate adjusted configuration providing a greatest improvement to the measure of network performance is selected by the nodes for adapting the configuration of the network.