SR Policy Path Usage Feedback for Dynamic Resource Reservation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network resource utilization is insufficient due to reservation of resources for unused candidate paths in segment routing policies, leading to inefficient use of network resources.
Innovation Solution
A network device sends information to a controller indicating that a candidate path is not being used, allowing the controller to release resources for that path, which can then be utilized for other traffic, improving overall network resource utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the controller reserves resources for each candidate path in the SR policy, then the reliability of service transmission is improved (backup path available), but the overall utilization of network resources deteriorates (resources wasted on unused paths)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic resource reservation by introducing a path usage status notification mechanism. The head node dynamically informs the controller which candidate paths are actually being used, allowing the controller to adjust resource reservations in real-time. When a backup path is not used, the controller receives notification and releases the reserved resources, transforming the static resource reservation into a dynamic adaptation based on actual traffic conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the controller to discard (release) reserved resources on candidate paths that are not being used for service transmission. By implementing a notification mechanism where the head node reports actual path usage status, the controller can identify unused backup paths and recover the reserved resources, making them available for other purposes or future use.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the controller computes and delivers SR policy with multiple candidate paths, then the adaptability of traffic steering is improved (multiple paths available), but the device complexity deteriorates (resource management overhead)
Solution Approach 1:
The head node performs self-service by autonomously determining which candidate paths are actually used for service transmission and actively notifying the controller of this status. This shifts part of the management burden from the controller to the head node, reducing the controller's complexity while maintaining the adaptability benefits of multiple candidate paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the head node monitors actual path usage and sends status information back to the controller. This feedback loop enables the controller to make informed decisions about resource allocation without having to continuously monitor or manage each candidate path, thereby reducing controller complexity while preserving traffic steering adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of this application disclose an information processing method, applied to a first network device. A first SR policy includes a first candidate path and a second candidate path. The first network device may determine that service traffic is transmitted through the first candidate path and not transmitted through the second candidate path. After determining that the service traffic is transmitted through the first candidate path and not transmitted through the second candidate path, the first network device may send first information to a controller, where the first information indicates that the controller does not need to reserve a resource for the second candidate path.