VNF Mediation Layer for Cross-Protocol Command Translation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current implementations of Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) require custom development and programming when the Virtual Network Function (VNF) manager does not support the protocols of VNF components, leading to increased complexity and cross-traffic between the VNF manager and virtual network functions.
Innovation Solution
A VNF controller component provides a mediation layer that maps commands and APIs from the VNF manager to the specific protocols supported by VNF components, acting as an intelligent adapter to translate southbound protocol APIs to a northbound API supported by the VNF manager, reducing the need for custom development and minimizing cross-traffic.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If custom development and programming are implemented when VNF manager does not support VNF component protocols, then protocol compatibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mediation layer that acts as an intermediary between the VNF manager and VNF components with different protocols. This mediator translates and adapts communication protocols, enabling compatibility without requiring custom development in the VNF manager itself. The mediation layer handles protocol conversion, allowing the system to support multiple protocols while maintaining a standardized management interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The mediation layer is designed to support multiple protocols simultaneously, providing universal compatibility. Rather than creating separate custom development paths for each protocol, the mediation layer implements a single multi-functional component that can handle various protocols through standardized translation mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If protocol translation is implemented at the VNF manager level, then protocol support is improved, but cross-traffic between VNF manager and virtual network functions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mediation layer is positioned strategically in the architecture to handle protocol translation, preventing unnecessary cross-traffic between the VNF manager and VNF components. By intercepting and translating protocols at the mediation layer, the system avoids redundant communication loops and reduces energy consumption associated with cross-traffic.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a computer program product, system, and method for providing a mediation layer between a virtual network function manager and virtual network functions supporting different protocols. A first command is received in a first communication protocol to perform an operation at a target virtual network function component managing a virtual resource. A determination is made of a second command in a second communication protocol mapping to the first command to perform a function of the first command at the target virtual network function component. The second command is communicated, using the second communication protocol, to the target virtual network function component to perform an operation with respect to the virtual resource managed by the target virtual network function component.