SDN VXLAN Communication Across OpenFlow and General Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing SDN environments face limitations in efficiently configuring networks for VXLAN communication due to dependence on specific equipment supporting VTEP, restricting network flexibility and configuration freedom, especially when using OpenFlow switches.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to enable VXLAN communication between OpenFlow and non-OpenFlow networks by configuring a network using a general switch as a VTEP, allowing communication without reliance on dedicated VTEP devices, utilizing an SDN controller to set flow rules and manage VTEP settings across different switch types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated VTEP equipment is used for VXLAN communication in SDN environment, then communication reliability is improved, but device complexity and network configuration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables general OpenFlow switches to perform VTEP functions through software implementation. The SDN controller installs flow rules that allow standard switches to encapsulate and decapsulate VXLAN packets, removing the need for dedicated VTEP hardware. This universalizes the VTEP capability across different switch types while maintaining VXLAN communication reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces dedicated VTEP hardware equipment with software-based flow rule processing on general switches. Instead of relying on specialized mechanical/VTEP devices, the system uses programmable flow rules in the SDN controller to achieve the same VXLAN encapsulation/decapsulation functions, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining communication reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If general switches are configured to support VXLAN communication without dedicated VTEP devices, then network configuration flexibility is improved, but communication reliability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the SDN controller monitors and manages flow rules on general switches. The controller receives VXLAN encapsulation/decapsulation requirements, dynamically installs appropriate flow rules, and ensures proper packet handling. This feedback loop maintains communication reliability while enabling flexible network configuration using general switches.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary configuration by pre-installing flow rules in the SDN controller for VXLAN processing. Before actual VXLAN communication occurs, the controller prepares the necessary encapsulation and decapsulation rules on general switches, ensuring that when VXLAN packets arrive, the switches are already configured to handle them reliably without requiring dedicated VTEP hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5th-Generation (5G) communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-Generation (4G) system with a technology for Internet of Things (IoT). The present disclosure may be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and the IoT-related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car, connected car, health care, digital education, smart retail, security and safety services. According to the present disclosure, communication is performed more efficiently in a software defined network (SDN) environment.