Smart Client Routing via Cloud Policy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network routing technologies face challenges in efficiently connecting hosts across different networks, requiring administrative complexity and lacking flexibility in selecting optimal paths based on criteria like physical location and service level agreements (SLAs).
Innovation Solution
A smart client routine system that employs cloud-based policies to dynamically select the most appropriate network path for connecting two hosts, utilizing a virtual layer over the physical network stack to facilitate peer-to-peer or relay connections, and allowing for different SLAs to be applied based on client-specific requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional IP-based routing is used to connect hosts on different networks, then connectivity between hosts is achieved, but administrative complexity increases and flexibility in path selection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a policy service as an intermediary component that mediates between the client application and the network routing infrastructure. This policy service stores and manages routing policies, client characteristics, and network path information, allowing the client to make intelligent routing decisions without complex administrative configuration. The policy service acts as a centralized repository that simplifies the client's decision-making process while providing flexible path selection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring routing policies and client characteristics in the policy service before actual connectivity is needed. Client applications register their characteristics and requirements in advance, and the policy service pre-processes this information to create ready-to-use routing policies. This eliminates the need for complex real-time administrative configuration and enables rapid path selection when connectivity is required.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple network paths are available for host connectivity, then routing flexibility improves, but determining the optimal path becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the policy service continuously monitors network conditions, path availability, and client requirements. The system collects information about multiple available paths and their current states, then uses this feedback to dynamically select the optimal path. The policy service adjusts routing decisions based on real-time network conditions and changing client requirements, making path selection straightforward despite multiple available routes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by dynamically adjusting routing decisions based on varying client characteristics, network conditions, and policy requirements. The policy service evaluates multiple paths by comparing relevant parameters such as network latency, bandwidth, cost, and service level agreements. By changing routing parameters based on current conditions, the system simplifies path selection while maintaining high routing flexibility.
3Extent of automation
If cloud-based policy services are used to manage routing decisions, then routing intelligence improves, but network infrastructure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing the policy service to perform multiple functions within a single centralized system. The policy service not only stores routing policies but also manages client characteristics, evaluates network paths, makes routing decisions, and updates policies dynamically. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate network infrastructure components, reducing overall complexity while providing high routing intelligence.
Data Source
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AI summary
Architecture that facilitates communications between two network nodes of the different networks by providing a routing mechanism that uses alternative modalities driven entirely by policies that are authored and stored in a computing cloud and enforced on the client. This allows the selection of one network path over another path based on criteria such as, physical location of the hosts and service level agreements (SLAs) to be provided, for example. With respect for path selection, a packet can be routed through a datacenter closest to the hosts. With respect to SLAs, there may be different SLAs available to different clients. For clients with the highest bandwidth/uptime or other guarantees, a network path different from other types of clients can be selected. Additionally, connectivity can be allowed or disallowed based on other kinds of policy rules such as a virtual circle to which the hosts may belong.