Software Network Switch Dynamic Topology for Latency Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network switches have inflexible architectures due to hardware-based ASICs and FPGAs, which cannot adapt to changing workloads and traffic patterns, leading to inefficient data packet transfer between input and output ports.
Innovation Solution
A software-based network switching system that dynamically adjusts the interconnection topology using k-ary tree structures and multiple hardware processing devices to balance latency and synchronization, allowing for flexible reconfiguration based on workload changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If hardware-based ASICs and FPGAs are used to implement network switches, then device reliability and processing speed are improved, but device flexibility and adaptability to changing workloads deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic interconnection network where the topology and routing paths can be reconfigured in real-time based on workload conditions. The system transitions from static hardware interconnections to dynamic software-controlled virtual channel assignments, allowing the network adapter to adapt its data transfer paths according to current traffic patterns and performance requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters such as virtual channel assignments, routing metrics, and queue priorities dynamically. By modifying these parameters through software control, the network adapter can optimize performance for different workload types without requiring physical hardware reconfiguration, thus maintaining both speed and adaptability
2Device complexity
If static hardware interconnection is used in network switches, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and efficiency in handling varying traffic patterns deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/static hardware interconnection system with a software-based virtualization layer. Instead of physically reconfiguring hardware switches and routers, the system uses software to create and manage virtual channels and routing paths, thereby maintaining simple hardware architecture while achieving high productivity through flexible software control
3Reliability
If hardware-based switching architecture is used, then manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but ease of configuration and operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The network adapter implements self-service capabilities through automated performance monitoring and dynamic resource allocation. The system automatically adjusts virtual channel assignments and routing parameters based on observed workload patterns, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining reliable operation through software-managed optimization
Data Source
AI summary
A network switching system and method and a computer program product for operating a network switch are disclosed. The network switch includes a multitude of input ports and a multitude of output ports. In one embodiment, one processing device is assigned to each of the input ports and output ports to process data packets received at the input ports and transferred to the output ports. In one embodiment, the method comprises creating an intermediate adjustable configuration of processing devices functionally between the input ports and the output ports, and assigning the processing devices of the intermediate configuration to forward the data packets from the input ports to the output ports to obtain a balance between latency and synchronization of the transfer of the data packets from the input ports to the output ports. In an embodiment, software is used to create and to adjust dynamically the intermediate configuration.