Virtual Edge Node as a Service for Low Latency Content Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CDN approaches limit the ability of Edge Nodes to manage resources efficiently, prevent deep network integration for fog computing, and lack flexibility in serving specific content or handling varying traffic loads, leading to suboptimal performance and security challenges.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of Virtual Edge Nodes as a Service (VENaaS) allows for the virtualization of Edge Nodes, enabling them to be instantiated deep within the access network, manage resources efficiently, serve specific content, and adapt to varying traffic loads while providing agile security measures, using Service Function Chaining and Network Service Header protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional Edge Nodes are deployed at the boundaries of ISP network, then CDN Provider maintains control of Edge Servers, but ISP cannot move Edge Nodes deeper into network to reduce latency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the Edge Node into two independent components: a virtualization layer (VEN) that can be deployed deep in the ISP network, and a management layer that remains with the CDN Provider. This segmentation allows the computational functions to be positioned closer to users for low latency while maintaining centralized control through virtualization management interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a virtualization intermediary layer that acts as a mediator between the CDN Provider and ISP infrastructure. This intermediary enables the CDN Provider to control Edge Servers remotely while the actual Edge Node instances are hosted and managed by the ISP deep within their network, resolving the control-latency contradiction.
2Loss of time
If Edge Nodes are physically deployed deep in ISP network, then delivery latency is reduced, but ISP loses ability to manage and control Edge Servers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service capabilities where the virtualized Edge Nodes automatically manage their own operations, including packet processing, session management, and resource allocation. This automation eliminates the need for manual ISP intervention while enabling deep network deployment, as the system self-configures and self-manages once deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtualization management layer serves as an intermediary that provides centralized control interfaces to the CDN Provider while the actual Edge Node instances operate autonomously in the ISP network. This intermediary enables remote management capabilities without requiring physical access or direct control of the deployed nodes.
3Productivity
If conventional Edge Nodes are used, then basic content caching is provided, but resource management flexibility and adaptability to varying traffic loads are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic resource management where virtualized Edge Nodes can dynamically allocate computational resources, adjust caching strategies, and adapt to varying traffic loads in real-time. The virtualization architecture enables flexible resource provisioning and dynamic service function chaining that responds to changing network conditions and traffic patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal Edge Node platform that can perform multiple functions including content caching, packet processing, security enforcement, and service function chaining. This multi-functional virtualized architecture allows a single Edge Node instance to adapt to different service requirements and traffic types, providing both high productivity and flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for virtualizing edge node functionality as a service for handling content delivery are described herein. An edge node receives a packet and determines if it associated with an established session and if it should be offloaded for processing. An offload status indicator and/or session context information can be added to the offloaded packet and it is transmitted to a subsequent edge node.