Virtual Nodes for Network Partition Traffic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In network interconnection, existing technologies face challenges in controlling traffic flow between multiple network partitions, particularly when VLAN mapping is not one-to-one, leading to sub-optimal paths and packet loss, as traffic may exit and re-enter partitions undesirably.
Innovation Solution
Implementing virtual nodes and virtual links on physical nodes, with assigned costs, to group ports by network partitions, allowing high costs for inter-partition routes and low costs for intra-partition routes, using techniques like link state routing and distance vector protocols to manage routing information packets and prevent undesirable traffic exit and re-entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If VLAN mapping is used to merge multiple network partitions, then network connectivity is improved, but traffic may exit and re-enter partitions undesirably causing sub-optimal paths and packet loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into multiple virtual nodes, each representing a network partition. Physical nodes are associated with specific virtual nodes based on their port groupings, creating distinct routing domains. This segmentation allows independent control of traffic within each partition while preventing undesired exit and re-entry through virtual link cost mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces virtual nodes as intermediary entities between physical nodes and network partitions. These virtual nodes act as mediators that manage traffic flow by assigning costs to virtual links, thereby controlling whether traffic should exit a partition or remain within it. The virtual nodes mediate between the need for partition merging and the need for traffic flow control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If cut set switches perform VLAN mapping to forward traffic between partitions, then inter-partition communication is enabled, but traffic may be dropped when VLAN numbers do not match
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of link cost by assigning different costs to different virtual links. Intra-partition virtual links have lower costs while inter-partition virtual links have higher costs. This parameter change guides routing decisions to prefer intra-partition traffic and avoid packet drops that would occur with traditional VLAN mapping when VLAN numbers don't match.
3Device complexity
If traditional routing protocols are used without virtual nodes, then routing simplicity is maintained, but sub-optimal paths are selected causing inefficient traffic flow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests virtual nodes within the existing routing infrastructure. The virtual nodes are integrated into the physical network topology without requiring separate routing protocols. Existing routing protocols continue to operate, but they now operate over a nested virtual topology that provides optimized paths while maintaining compatibility with current network equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatuses, and systems for controlling interconnections between nodes using virtual nodes are described. A physical node—such as a router, bridge, switch, etc. —stores a virtual cost associated with a virtual link that links virtual nodes of the physical node. A first physical port and a second physical port of the physical node are designated as belonging to a first virtual node and a third physical port of the physical node is designated as belonging to the second virtual node. The first physical port is associated with a first network partition and the second physical port is associated with a second network partition. The physical node transmits a routing information packet that includes the virtual cost.