Virtual Network Function Path Tracing for Proof of Transit
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Network Function Virtualization (NFV) environments, there is no guarantee that data packets traverse the correct Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) in a chain and no way to determine the processing time, especially when VNFs are deployed as virtual machines or containers, making it impossible to ensure packet integrity and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Implement a path tracing mechanism using a Midpoint Compressed Data (MCD) stack with a Wide Local Path Tracing Identification (WL PT ID) to record and analyze the path of data packets through NFV chains, incorporating an SDN Controller for analytics to determine the packet's trajectory and processing time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Network Function Virtualization is implemented to improve scalability and flexibility, then service providers can deliver new network services faster and reduce hardware costs, but there is no guarantee that data packets traverse the correct Virtual Network Functions in the chain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces path tracing packets as intermediary elements that carry identification information through the NFV chain. These packets act as mediators between the network controller and VNFs, enabling verification of packet traversal without disrupting normal data flow. The path tracing packets include unique identifiers that allow the network to track and verify which VNFs actually processed the data packets.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where path tracing information is collected from VNFs and returned to the network controller. This feedback loop enables the controller to verify whether packets traversed the correct VNF chain, measure processing times, and detect anomalies such as ECMP path deviations. The feedback includes timestamps and VNF identification data that confirm proper packet handling.
2Loss of energy
If VNFs are deployed as virtual machines or containers to improve resource consolidation and reduce physical hardware, then physical space and power are reduced, but it becomes impossible to determine packet processing time and ensure packet integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by embedding timestamps and identification information in path tracing packets before they enter the NFV chain. The network controller pre-configures these packets with unique identifiers and injection timestamps, enabling accurate measurement of processing times without requiring modifications to the VNFs themselves. This preliminary preparation allows the system to measure packet traversal time through virtualized environments with the same precision as physical hardware.
3Productivity
If dynamic creation of NFV chains is implemented to improve service delivery speed, then new services can be deployed faster, but there is no certainty as to whether packets have traversed the correct Virtual Network Function
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses identification information in path tracing packets that can be interpreted as analogous to color changes or distinct markers. Each VNF in the dynamic chain is associated with specific identification data that the path tracing packets carry and return. This allows the network controller to verify packet traversal through dynamically created chains by matching the identification information, effectively tracking packet flow through rapidly changing virtual network configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for monitoring data transport in a network virtualization function (NVF) chain. A path tracing packet is generated having a Midpoint Compressed Data (MCD) to collect path tracing information of the NVF chain. The NVF node is configured to record an MCD containing Wide Local Path Tracing Identification (WL PT ID). The WL PT ID includes a first field having a value that indicates that a non-standard path tracing format is to be used and has a second field that indicates a particular path tracing format to be used. The path tracing packet is passed through the NVF chain and is then received back again after passing through the NVF chain. Data collected by the path tracing packet is analyzed to determine which NVF nodes the path tracing packet passed through, and the amount of time taken for the path tracing packet to pass through, the NVF chain.