Hierarchical SDN Tunnel Stitching via Local Label Assignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for establishing end-to-end tunnels across multiple domains in software-defined networks (SDNs) rely on global label assignment, which burdens central controllers and lacks scalability, and does not provide adequate virtual network (VN) isolation.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a local label assignment scheme where network elements within each domain generate and assign labels for intra-domain and inter-domain tunnel identifiers, reducing the processing load on central controllers and enabling VN isolation through end-to-end tunnel and label-switched path stitching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If global label assignment is used for establishing end-to-end tunnels across multiple domains, then tunnel establishment is possible, but the central controller becomes burdened and scalability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the global label assignment function into domain-specific label assignment functions. Each domain controller independently assigns labels within its domain, rather than a single central controller managing all labels globally. This segmentation reduces the burden on central controllers while maintaining end-to-end tunnel establishment capability through coordinated label assignment across domains.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hierarchical dimension to label assignment, operating at both domain level and global level. Domain controllers perform label assignment within their respective domains, while inter-domain tunnel identifiers coordinate across domains. This multi-dimensional approach distributes the control burden while maintaining global tunnel connectivity.
2Ease of operation
If global label assignment is used, then end-to-end tunnel can be established, but virtual network isolation is not adequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using domain-specific label spaces that are locally meaningful to each domain. Each domain controller manages its own label namespace independently, creating isolated label spaces that enhance virtual network isolation. This local quality approach ensures that label assignments in one domain do not interfere with other domains, improving VN isolation while maintaining end-to-end tunnel functionality through coordinated inter-domain label assignment.
3Productivity
If local label assignment is implemented to reduce processing load, then scalability is enhanced, but coordination across domains becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces inter-domain tunnel identifiers as intermediaries that facilitate coordination between domain controllers. These identifiers act as mediators that translate between domain-specific label spaces, enabling independent domain label assignment while maintaining coherent end-to-end tunnel routing. The intermediary mechanism simplifies cross-domain coordination by providing a standardized interface for label translation and routing information exchange.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of establishing an end-to-end tunnel for a virtual network extending across multiple domains using a first network controller element managing a first domain is provided. The method includes receiving a request from a second network controller element managing the first network controller element for an intra-domain locally-learned tunnel identifier (LLTI), sending an instruction to an egress network element of the first domain to generate the intra-domain LLTI in accordance with the request, receiving the intra-domain LLTI from the egress network element in accordance with the instruction, and sending the intra-domain LLTI to an ingress network element of the first domain. A method of establishing an end-to-end tunnel for a virtual network extending across multiple domains using an inter-domain LLTI is provided.