Automated Transport Protocol Discovery via Probe Packets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communications networks face challenges in dynamically adapting to different transport layer protocols along a network path, leading to suboptimal packet transmission due to the lack of automated discovery and switching between protocols like TCP and SCTP.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of automated methods and apparatus for discovering network devices that support specific transport layer protocols, such as SCTP, by sending probe packets and authenticating sessions, allowing for the establishment of optimized transport sessions between network devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated discovery methods are implemented to identify suitable transport protocols along the network path, then packet transmission efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by sending probe packets before actual data transmission to discover which transport protocols are supported by network devices along the path. This advance discovery allows the system to select the most efficient protocol (TCP or SCTP) for subsequent packet transmission, thereby improving transmission efficiency without adding complexity during the actual data flow
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces probe packets as intermediary elements that facilitate the discovery process. These probe packets carry information about supported transport protocols and enable the source device to automatically identify the optimal protocol without requiring complex manual configuration or real-time negotiation during data transmission
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration of transport protocols is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to changing network conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically discovering and selecting the appropriate transport protocol based on network conditions and device capabilities. The source device autonomously sends probe packets, receives responses indicating protocol support, and configures the optimal transport session without requiring manual intervention, thereby achieving high adaptability while keeping operational complexity low
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic adaptation by allowing the system to change transport protocols based on current network conditions and device capabilities. The automatic discovery mechanism continuously assesses which devices support TCP or SCTP and adjusts the transport session accordingly, providing versatility without requiring complex manual reconfiguration
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are, inter alia, methods, apparatus, computer-storage media, mechanisms, and means associated with automated discovery of network devices supporting particular transport layer protocols, such as, but not limited to Stream Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP). Packet switching devices automatically discover peer packet switching devices supporting a particular transport layer protocol, and then establish a session using the particular transport layer protocol between them for subsequent use in transporting packets.