SDN Controller Load Balancing via VTEP Reporting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional load balancing solutions in software-defined networks (SDNs) require an additional layer, increasing complexity and hindering scalability when adding new hosts and virtual machines, as they lack centralized control over network traffic routing decisions.
Innovation Solution
Implementing Virtual Extensible Local Area Networks (VXLAN) with Virtual Network Tunnel Endpoints (VTEPs) that provide load information to the SDN controller, allowing it to centrally manage and direct traffic based on network load, eliminating the need for a separate load balancing layer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional load balancing solutions are implemented in SDNs, then load balancing functionality is provided, but device complexity and system complexity increase due to requiring an additional load balancing layer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the load balancing function with the SDN controller by having the controller directly receive load information from VTEPs and make routing decisions based on this information. This integration eliminates the need for a separate load balancing layer, reducing system complexity while maintaining load balancing functionality. The controller combines multiple functions (traffic routing, load balancing, and network management) into a single centralized component.
2Reliability
If traditional load balancing solutions with additional layers are used, then load balancing is achieved, but scalability is hindered when adding new hosts and virtual machines
Solution Approach 1:
The SDN controller is designed as a universal platform that handles multiple functions including traffic routing, load balancing, and dynamic adaptation to network changes. When new hosts or VMs are added, the controller automatically receives load information from new VTEPs and incorporates them into routing decisions without requiring changes to the overall architecture or additional load balancing components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic load balancing where the SDN controller continuously receives real-time load information from VTEPs and dynamically adjusts routing decisions based on current network conditions. This dynamic approach allows the system to automatically adapt to scaling events, such as adding new hosts or VMs, by incorporating them into the load balancing calculations without manual reconfiguration or architectural changes.
3Productivity
If centralized control is implemented in SDN, then network traffic routing decisions are optimized, but the complexity of managing load balancing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the load balancing management complexity from the routing decision-making process by having VTEPs independently collect and report load information to the SDN controller. The controller then focuses solely on making routing decisions based on this pre-processed load information, separating the information gathering function from the decision-making function and simplifying the overall management complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, computer program product and computer system is provided. A processor receives at least one tunnel endpoint load information of a plurality of virtual network tunnel endpoints associated with a first virtual network. A processor receives a request directed to the first virtual network from a requesting virtual machine of a second virtual network. A processor generates a destination network address of a virtual network tunnel endpoint associated with the first virtual network based, at least in part, on the at least one load information of the plurality of virtual network tunnel endpoints. A processor sends the destination network address to the requesting virtual machine.