Workload-Based Service Chain Fragmentation in Virtual Switches

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current data center networks face challenges in efficiently inserting and managing service chains, particularly in virtual data center environments, due to the complexity of service paths, manual configuration requirements, and the need for major system overhauls to maintain dynamism and scalability.

Innovation Solution

A method for workload-based service chain insertion using a service controller and dispatcher within a distributed virtual switch, which partitions service paths into fragments, automatically identifies service nodes, and provisions them at interfaces, enabling dynamic and scalable service delivery without manual intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual configuration methods are used for service chain insertion, then service paths can be established, but the complexity of configuration and user intervention increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveservice chain insertion complexityVSAvoidmanual configuration requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service through automated service chain insertion. The service controller automatically discovers service nodes, determines optimal paths, and configures service chains without manual intervention. The workload-based insertion mechanism allows the system to self-adapt to workload requirements and dynamically provision services.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring service chains based on workload requirements before actual service delivery. The service controller proactively identifies suitable service nodes and establishes service paths in advance, enabling seamless service insertion without requiring manual configuration when workloads change.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional service path management is used, then service delivery can be maintained, but system dynamism and scalability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem dynamismVSAvoidsystem overhaul requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements dynamics through workload-based service chain insertion that adapts to changing conditions. Service chains are dynamically provisioned and modified based on real-time workload requirements, service node availability, and network conditions. The system continuously adjusts service paths without requiring major structural changes or overhauls.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system applies segmentation by dividing service chains into manageable fragments that can be independently configured and deployed. The service controller breaks down complex service paths into smaller service chain segments, allowing flexible reconfiguration and incremental deployment without requiring complete system redesign or major overhauls.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Productivity

If service nodes are manually identified and provisioned, then service paths can be established, but the time and user intervention required increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveservice chain insertion efficiencyVSAvoidconfiguration time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses feedback mechanisms where the service controller continuously monitors workload requirements, service node status, and network conditions. Based on this feedback, the controller automatically adjusts service chain configurations, identifies optimal service nodes, and provisions services in real-time, eliminating manual identification and reducing configuration time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces manual mechanical configuration processes with automated electronic control mechanisms. The service controller uses software-based service path computation and automated provisioning workflows to substitute manual node identification and configuration, dramatically reducing the time and user intervention required for service chain insertion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS9130872B2Workload based service chain insertion in a network environment

Publication Date: 2015.09.08 CISCO TECHNOLOGY INC

AI summary

An example method for workload based service chain insertion in a network environment is provided and includes partitioning a service-path into fragments at a service controller, where the service-path comprises an ordered sequence of services to be provided to a packet associated with a workload in a network. The method also includes determining a location of service nodes providing the services; and provisioning the fragments at interfaces at a distributed virtual switch. The method could further include generating a plurality of service insertion points corresponding to the fragments at a service dispatcher. The service dispatcher can include a plurality of data plane components, and the service insertion points are generated at the data plane components.