Virtual NIC Logging for VM Communication Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication devices require dedicated hardware and complex mechanisms to log communication data between virtual machines, complicating the access and storage of memory areas.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus with virtual machines that send communication data to a communication logging unit, which logs data by sending its address as a destination address, simplifying the configuration and eliminating the need for dedicated hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated hardware element is used to capture communication data between virtual machines, then the logging function is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a virtual copy of a network interface card (virtual NIC) within the hypervisor to perform the logging function, instead of dedicated hardware. The virtual NIC captures communication data between virtual machines through software-based packet filtering and copying mechanisms, eliminating the need for additional physical hardware while maintaining reliable logging capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The hypervisor's virtual NIC serves multiple functions: it manages virtual machine network communications and simultaneously performs logging of communication data between virtual machines. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated hardware loggers, reducing device complexity while maintaining logging reliability.
2Reliability
If an abstract memory area provided by a virtual machine is used for capturing communication data, then the logging function is achieved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to complicated access mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a buffer memory in the hypervisor as an intermediary between the virtual machines and the logging function. Communication data is first copied to this buffer memory by the virtual NIC, and then logged. This intermediary buffer simplifies access mechanisms by providing a centralized, hypervisor-managed storage location that virtual machines can access through standard interfaces, eliminating complicated direct access requirements.
3Reliability
If dedicated hardware is used for capturing communication data, then the logging function is reliable, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive dedicated hardware with a software-based virtual NIC that copies and logs communication data. This virtualization approach uses existing hardware resources more efficiently, eliminating the need for additional physical logging components and significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining logging reliability through software-based packet capture and filtering.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical/dedicated hardware systems with software-based virtualization mechanisms. The virtual NIC implemented in firmware or software replaces physical logging hardware, leveraging the existing hypervisor infrastructure to perform logging functions without additional physical components, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes a plurality of virtual machines each having a function of sending an address request for communication data to an outside, and sending communication data to a destination address received as a response to the address request. The apparatus further includes a communication debugger that logs first communication data between the virtual machine and another virtual machine. Upon receiving an address request from the virtual machine, the communication debugger sends an address of the communication debugger as the destination address, to the virtual machine, and logs the communication data sent from the virtual machine.