Service Node Initiated Service Chains in Network
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing service chaining schemes limit the selection and initiation of service chains to centrally located network nodes, and service chain selection is static, failing to adapt to changes in network topology or server additions/deletions.
Innovation Solution
The system enables service nodes to dynamically initiate and modify service chains based on classification criteria specific to each service node, allowing for real-time specification of service chains and steering of traffic on a graph topology, using secondary classifiers to update service headers and modify existing service chains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If service chain selection is centralized to network nodes, then service chain management is simplified and controlled, but network flexibility and adaptability to topology changes are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides service chain selection authority from centralized network nodes to distributed service nodes. Each service node gains autonomous capability to initiate and modify service chains based on local classification criteria, transforming a centralized monolithic system into a segmented distributed architecture that improves adaptability while maintaining manageable complexity through modular autonomy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic service chain selection where service nodes can real-time initiate and modify service chains based on changing network conditions, topology, and traffic characteristics. This replaces static pre-configured service chains with dynamic adaptive service chains that respond to current network state, resolving the contradiction between centralized control and network flexibility
2Stability of the object's composition
If service chain selection is static, then service chain configuration is simplified and stable, but responsiveness to network topology changes and server additions/deletions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables service nodes to autonomously perform service chain selection and modification based on local classification criteria and network conditions. Each service node independently monitors its own state and environment, making self-directed decisions about service chain initiation and modification without requiring centralized reconfiguration, thus achieving both stability through autonomous operation and adaptability through self-adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where service nodes continuously monitor network topology, traffic characteristics, and service chain performance. Based on this feedback, service nodes dynamically adjust service chain selection and modification decisions, maintaining stable operation under normal conditions while automatically adapting to network changes, server additions, or deletions through real-time feedback-driven adjustments
Data Source
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AI summary
An example method for service node originated service chains in a network environment is provided and includes receiving a packet at a service node in a network environment that includes a plurality of service nodes and a central classifier, analyzing the packet for a service chain modification or a service chain initiation, classifying the packet at the service node to a new service chain based on the analysis, initiating the new service chain at the service node if the analysis indicates service chain initiation, and modifying an existing service chain for the packet to the new service chain if the analysis indicates service chain modification. In specific embodiments, the analysis includes applying classification logic specific to the service node. Some embodiments, service node attributes and order of service nodes in substantially all service chains configured in the network may be received from a central controller.