SIP Source IP Address Selection via SASA Algorithm

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Solution Overview

Problem

In Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) communications, addressing and configuring communications across mixed IPv4 and IPv6 interfaces are challenging due to the complexity of selecting appropriate source IP addresses, especially when traversing different network mechanisms like firewalls and routers, which can lead to communication failures.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a source address selection algorithm (SASA) to determine the correct source IP addresses for inclusion in SIP headers, specifically using the getsocname() function to ensure accurate Via and Record-Route headers, thereby facilitating correct routing and avoiding communication blockages.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple IP interfaces (IPv4 and IPv6) are used in SIP proxy servers, then communication versatility is improved, but address selection complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication versatilityVSAvoidaddress selection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically selecting IP address parameters (source and destination addresses) based on the specific communication context. The system changes the selected IP version and address according to the destination address type, network path requirements, and firewall rules, rather than using a fixed address selection approach. This resolves the contradiction by making address selection adaptive to different communication scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements self-service through automated IP address selection algorithms that independently determine the appropriate source and destination IP addresses without manual configuration. The proxy server automatically selects addresses based on destination address analysis, network topology, and communication requirements, eliminating the need for manual address management while supporting multiple IP interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Object-affected harmful factors

If firewalls and routers are deployed for network security, then communication security is improved, but communication reliability deteriorates due to blocked communications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication securityVSAvoidcommunication reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the system analyzes firewall and router configurations to determine which IP addresses are blocked or restricted. By gathering information about network security policies and adjusting address selection accordingly, the system can choose alternative IP addresses that are not blocked, thereby maintaining communication reliability while respecting security constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The address selection process is made dynamic by continuously adapting to network conditions, firewall rules, and router configurations. The system can change the selected IP address based on real-time network state, ensuring that communications remain reliable even when security mechanisms are in place. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to navigate around blocks imposed by firewalls and routers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Measurement precision

If manual IP address configuration is used for each interface, then addressing precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaddressing precisionVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces manual IP address configuration with automated self-service mechanisms. The proxy server automatically selects appropriate source and destination IP addresses based on destination address analysis, network topology, and communication requirements. This eliminates the need for manual configuration while maintaining precise addressing, as the automated system makes intelligent decisions about address selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary address selection algorithm that mediates between the multiple IP interfaces and the communication requirements. This intermediary layer analyzes the destination address and automatically determines the appropriate source IP address, acting as a bridge between the complex multi-interface configuration and the simple need for correct addressing. This intermediary mechanism maintains addressing precision without requiring manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10728207B2Internet protocol address selection in session initiation protocol communications
Publication Date: 2020.07.28 AVAYA INC
  • US10728207B2 patent drawing
  • US10728207B2 patent drawing
  • US10728207B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Examples disclosed herein provide methods and systems for selecting Internet Protocol addresses for Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) communications. In at least one implementation, a method of operating a communication network utilizing a session initiation protocol (SIP) is provided. The method performed within a second communication device includes receiving a SIP invite from a first communication device, and determining a source IP address for the second communication device, using an IP address for a third communication device as a destination address within a source address selection algorithm (SASA) function. The method further includes adding a Via header within the SIP invite to include the SASA determined source IP address for the second communication device, adding a Record-Route header within the SIP invite to include the SASA determined source IP address for the second communication device, and transferring the modified SIP invite to the third communication device.