Seamless Vhost-Net Module Upgrade via Kernel-User Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for upgrading para-virtualized network adapter kernel acceleration modules in KVM virtual machines require temporary shutdowns, causing service interruptions and impacting service providers and users.
Innovation Solution
The method involves switching the network flow of the first para-virtualized network adapter kernel acceleration module to user mode for transmission, removing the old module, inserting a new upgraded module, and switching the network flow back to kernel mode without interrupting services, allowing seamless upgrades without user notice.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the existing method of upgrading the para-virtualized network adapter kernel acceleration module is used (shutdown, remove old module, insert new module, restart), then the module upgrade is completed, but service interruption occurs and user experience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by switching the network flow to user mode for transmission BEFORE removing the old kernel acceleration module. This preparatory step ensures that network services can continue uninterrupted during the module replacement process, as the flow has already been redirected to an alternative transmission path.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses user mode as an intermediary mechanism during the module upgrade process. By introducing user mode transmission as a temporary mediator, the system can replace the kernel acceleration module without interrupting network flows, as the intermediary handles transmission during the transition period.
2Ease of manufacture
If the virtual machine is shut down for module upgrade, then the new module can be inserted, but service interruption occurs impacting service providers and customers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by switching the network flow to user mode for transmission BEFORE removing the old kernel acceleration module. This preparatory step ensures that network services can continue uninterrupted during the module replacement process, as the flow has already been redirected to an alternative transmission path.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses user mode as an intermediary mechanism during the module upgrade process. By introducing user mode transmission as a temporary mediator, the system can replace the kernel acceleration module without interrupting network flows, as the intermediary handles transmission during the transition period.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus for upgrading a para-virtualized network adapter kernel acceleration module are disclosed. The method includes switching a network flow of a first para-virtualized network adapter kernel acceleration module to a user mode for transmission; removing the first para-virtualized network adapter kernel acceleration module; inserting a second para-virtualized network adapter kernel acceleration module; and switching a transmission of the network flow in the user mode to a transmission by the second para-virtualized network adapter kernel acceleration module. The method and the apparatus for upgrading a para-virtualized network adapter kernel acceleration module switches between a kernel mode and a user mode for a network flow without affecting fluctuations in a network flow of a virtual machine. An upgrade of a para-virtualized network adapter kernel acceleration module is achieved, which is unnoticeable by a user, and user experience is not affected.