Network Switch Packet Trunking for Externalized VNF Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network architectures lack an efficient mechanism to externalize network functions, leading to inefficiencies in processing and routing packets across multiple network nodes, particularly in virtualized environments where network functions need to be dynamically applied and managed.
Innovation Solution
A direct link is established between a network switch and a packet processor, enabling the externalization of network functions by tagging packets with identifiers for processing, allowing the packet processor to apply and confirm the execution of network functions before returning the packets to the switch, thereby streamlining network function processing and routing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network functions are virtualized and chained across multiple network nodes, then network service flexibility and adaptability are improved, but packet processing latency and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network functions into independent virtual network function (VNF) modules that can be dynamically chained. Each VNF is a self-contained processing unit with standardized interfaces, allowing flexible service composition without increasing end-to-end latency. The segmentation enables parallel processing paths and selective function application, reducing unnecessary processing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a service chain orchestrator as an intermediary that manages VNF chaining and packet routing. This orchestrator maintains a service chain descriptor (SCD) that defines the optimal processing path, acting as a mediator between packet sources and VNFs. The intermediary enables dynamic service composition while maintaining efficient packet flow through intelligent routing decisions.
2Productivity
If network functions are externalized to separate packet processors, then network device functionality and processing capacity are improved, but device complexity and connection management difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates universal packet processor interfaces that can handle multiple network functions through a standardized protocol. The packet processor is designed with multi-functional capabilities to execute different VNFs based on incoming packet requirements, eliminating the need for dedicated hardware for each function. This universality simplifies connection management while maintaining high processing capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter-based configuration where network functions are defined by configurable parameters in service chain descriptors. By changing parameters in the SCD (such as VNF selection, chaining order, and resource allocation), the system dynamically adapts processing capacity without physical reconfiguration. This parameter-driven approach simplifies management of externalized functions while maintaining flexibility.
3Speed
If direct links are established between network switches and packet processors for function externalization, then packet routing efficiency is improved, but network architecture complexity and implementation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested architecture where virtual network functions are embedded within packet processors, which are in turn connected to network switches through direct links. The service chain orchestrator is nested at the management layer, coordinating multiple packet processors and VNFs. This nested structure enables efficient direct packet routing while organizing complexity hierarchically, making implementation more manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses template-based service chain descriptors that can be copied and instantiated multiple times with different parameters. Instead of manually configuring each packet processor connection, administrators can replicate proven service chain configurations across multiple network nodes. This copying approach reduces implementation difficulty while maintaining optimized packet routing efficiency across the network.
Data Source
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AI summary
The methods and systems described herein provide a mechanism to externalize network functions through a direct link between a network switch and an external packet processor. The network switch is configured to receive a packet directed to a destination node via a first network interface. The network switch is also configured to forward the received packet to a packet processor, via a second network interface, over a direct physical link between the network switch and the packet processor. The packet is forwarded with an identifier for a virtualized network function executing on the packet processor and a destination MAC address of the packet is different from a MAC address of the packet processor.