Service Function Chaining Congestion Tracking via Network Service Header
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Solution Overview
Problem
Service function chaining networks face issues with network congestion, leading to slow packet transfer, retransmission, or data loss, as existing technologies lack effective congestion tracking and management mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and device for tracking congestion in a service function chain by receiving packets with a network service header, forwarding them through service functions, detecting congestion, and updating a congestion field in the header to indicate encountered congestion, which can modify the service path to avoid congested areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If service function chaining is implemented to process packets through multiple network nodes, then packet processing functions (firewalls, NAT, load balancing) are improved, but network congestion occurs leading to slow transfer, retransmission, or data loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by having the last node in the service function chain communicate congestion indications back to the first node through the network service header. This feedback loop enables the first node to modify packet paths dynamically based on real-time congestion information, resolving the contradiction by allowing versatile packet processing while maintaining delivery reliability through adaptive routing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the service path modifiable based on congestion conditions. The first node can change the path that packets take through the service function chain in response to congestion indications, transforming a static packet forwarding system into a dynamic one that adapts to network conditions, thus maintaining reliability while preserving processing versatility.
2Productivity
If congestion tracking is implemented by updating fields in packet headers, then network efficiency is improved through path modification, but device complexity increases due to additional processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using the existing network service header structure for multiple purposes: both controlling the sequence of service functions and tracking congestion. By making the header serve dual functions, the patent improves network efficiency through congestion tracking without requiring separate complex tracking mechanisms, thus minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by having nodes in the service function chain automatically detect and mark congestion conditions in packet headers without requiring external monitoring systems. Each node serves itself by monitoring its own congestion state and updating the header accordingly, which improves network efficiency while avoiding the complexity of centralized tracking infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method tracks congestion in a service function chain. The method includes receiving a packet at a service function forwarding node of the service function chain, the packet having an information packet, a transport header, and a network service header, forwarding the packet to a service function in accordance with the network service header, detecting congestion, and updating a congestion field in the network service header to indicate congestion was encountered in the service function chain.