Virtual Network Paths for Dynamic Application Scaling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional wired networks require physical connections and reconfiguration of wires for changes in network topology or scaling, which is labor-intensive and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for creating and managing virtual network paths between virtual machines on different computers connected via a chassis interconnect, using virtual network interfaces (VNICs) and a network express manager to route network traffic without physical wires, allowing for dynamic scaling of applications based on resource usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical wires are used to connect computer systems in a network, then reliable communication is achieved, but network reconfiguration requires manual physical labor and is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical wire connections with a virtual networking system. Virtual network interfaces (VNICs) and virtual wires allow network traffic to be routed through software-defined paths instead of requiring physical disconnection and reconnection of cables. The network express manager dynamically redirects traffic at the network card level, eliminating manual physical reconfiguration labor while maintaining reliable communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The network express manager acts as an intermediary between the physical network infrastructure and the virtual machines. It intercepts and redirects network traffic between VNICs without requiring changes to physical connections, enabling rapid reconfiguration by managing traffic flow through virtual wires rather than physical cables.
2Adaptability or versatility
If physical network connections are used, then stable network topology is maintained, but scaling applications requires physical reconfiguration of wires
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic network configuration through virtual wires and VNICs that can be created, modified, and deleted through software. The network express manager dynamically updates traffic routing rules to redirect network flow to new application instances as they are scaled, allowing the network topology to adapt flexibly to changing application requirements without physical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
When scaling applications, the system creates additional virtual instances of applications on different computers within the chassis. The network express manager then redirects traffic to these copied instances through virtual wires, enabling application scaling through software-based replication rather than physical reconfiguration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If virtual network paths are implemented on a chassis interconnect, then dynamic scaling and reconfiguration are enabled, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The network express manager serves multiple functions: it manages physical network interface cards, creates and manages virtual network interfaces (VNICs), routes traffic between virtual machines, and dynamically scales applications by redirecting traffic. This multi-functional approach consolidates complex network management capabilities into a single universal component, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
In general, in one aspect, the invention relates to a method for scaling an application. The method includes executing a first instance of the application on a first computer in a chassis, where the first instance of the application is associated with a first VNIC and a second VNIC executing on the first computer. The method further includes loading a second instance of the application on a second computer in the chassis, where the second instance of the application is associated with a third VNIC and a fourth VNIC executing on the second computer. The method further includes re-programming a network express manager in the chassis to direct a portion of network traffic directed to the first VNIC to the third VNIC and executing the second instance of the application after the re-programming.