Virtual Network Interface with Message Management Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current virtual network systems are limited in their ability to concurrently connect multiple distinct networks using a single Virtual Network Interface (VNI), as they typically operate on a one-to-one basis, restricting the number of virtual layered networks a node can be connected to simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a Message Management Unit (MMU) and Message Payload Encapsulation Module (MPEM) within a single computer software process enables a one-to-many relationship between a single VNI and multiple virtual layered networks, allowing simultaneous connection to multiple virtual networks through message tagging, encapsulation, and routing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single VNI is used to connect to multiple virtual layered networks, then resource utilization and flexibility are improved, but the system complexity and message management overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Message Management Unit (MMU) as an intermediary component that sits between the VNI and multiple virtual layered networks. The MMU receives messages from the VNI, determines the appropriate destination virtual network using a lookup table, and routes messages accordingly. This intermediary structure allows a single VNI to efficiently manage connections to multiple virtual networks without requiring complex management logic at higher layers, thus resolving the contradiction between improved connectivity and increased system complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If virtual networks are implemented using software processes, then hardware costs are reduced and deployment flexibility is improved, but broadcast capabilities and network features are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal message routing mechanism that can handle both unicast and broadcast messages through the same software-based VNI infrastructure. The MMU's lookup table can be configured to route broadcast messages to multiple destinations simultaneously, enabling broadcast capabilities within the virtual network layer without requiring additional hardware. This multi-functional approach allows the software-based virtual network to provide both point-to-point and broadcast communication, resolving the contradiction between deployment flexibility and broadcast capabilities.
3Reliability
If multiple physical network interfaces are used for concurrent network connections, then connection reliability and security are improved, but hardware requirements and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple virtual network connections into a single physical network interface through the VNI and MMU architecture. By combining multiple logical network paths through one physical interface, the system achieves connection reliability and security equivalent to multiple physical interfaces while reducing hardware resource requirements. The MMU ensures proper message routing and isolation between different virtual networks, maintaining reliability without requiring proportional hardware resources.
Data Source
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AI summary
Techniques are provided for establishment of multiple concurrent virtual networks, in one example, there is provided a method operable by a message management unit (MMU) or the like. The method may involve establishing communication handles with a plurality of virtual network interfaces (VNIs) operatively coupled to an operating system, and establishing a network communications socket (NCS) operatively connected to a plurality of virtual layered networks. The method may involve establishing data channels that couple the MMU and its components with the respective VNls of the MMU, and allowing the virtual layered networks to be concurrently transported on top of physical net\vork(s). The method may involve facilitating communication between the operating system and the virtual layered networks via the combination of the established data channels, the established handles and a network software stack of the operating system.