VLAN Tag State Modification in Network Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network protocols are inadequate for flexible and sophisticated manipulation of packet tags within a network switching fabric, limiting the ability to manage data packets effectively across diverse networks.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows for the modification of VLAN tag states of packets based on the egress interface and VLAN-ID assignment, enabling flexible manipulation of VLAN tags, including changing their order or content, to support seamless transmission across different network domains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional network protocols are used for packet transmission, then network compatibility is maintained, but flexible manipulation of packet tags is not supported
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the VLAN tag manipulation process into distinct operations: identifying packet tags, determining desired tag states, and modifying tags independently. This allows flexible manipulation of individual tag elements (VLAN-ID, priority, etc.) without requiring complex protocol changes, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically modifies packet tags based on egress interface requirements and network policies. Tags are not fixed but can be changed, reordered, or replaced as packets traverse different network segments, enabling flexible adaptation while maintaining standard protocol structures.
2Ease of operation
If multiple VLAN tags are manipulated within a switching fabric, then packet management flexibility is improved, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching fabric is designed with universal tag manipulation capabilities that can handle multiple VLAN tags simultaneously. The same hardware infrastructure supports identification, modification, reordering, and replacement of tags without requiring separate processing paths, simplifying the system while improving packet management flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary identification of packet tags and determination of desired tag states before actual modification occurs. This pre-processing approach organizes the complexity upfront, allowing simpler execution phase operations and improving overall packet management efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If VLAN tags are modified based on egress interface, then network domain compatibility is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
VLAN tag modification is performed locally at each egress interface based on specific network domain requirements. Each interface can independently adjust tags according to its connected network's protocols and policies, enabling broad compatibility without requiring centralized processing that would increase time delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching fabric autonomously determines and applies appropriate tag modifications based on egress interface characteristics and packet characteristics. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external intervention or complex coordination, maintaining fast processing while achieving network domain compatibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of managing data packets for transmission in a virtual network are disclosed. In some implementations, a network switch may generally comprise a packet modifier that modifies a VLAN tag state of a packet to be egressed as a function of an egress interface and a VLAN-ID assignment. The modified VLAN tag state may include one or more VLAN tags that are in a different order, or that have a different content, in comparison to the VLAN tags of the packet at the time of ingress.