Virtual Network Function Provisioning via Converged Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The distribution of large virtual machines (VMs) and software containers is time-consuming and expensive due to their size, hindering rapid provisioning and consumption, especially for short-term use cases in cloud environments.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism for provisioning Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) executed on VMs or software containers is deployed through a converged networking and computing device, allowing for high-speed transfer and activation over a wide area network, with network connectivity reconfiguration to facilitate efficient distribution and deployment to multiple locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If virtual machines are distributed through traditional networks, then file transfer can be completed, but the process is time-consuming and expensive due to large file sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the virtual machine distribution process by separating the large VM image file into smaller chunks or blocks that can be transferred more efficiently. This segmentation allows for parallel transfer operations and better utilization of network bandwidth, directly addressing the slow distribution speed and long provisioning time issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary actions by pre-processing virtual machine images before distribution, including compression, formatting, and preparation of transfer metadata. This preliminary preparation reduces the actual transfer time and enables faster provisioning once the transfer begins, directly combating the time-consuming nature of traditional VM distribution.
2Quantity of substance
If virtual machines are distributed through traditional networks, then files can be transferred, but the process is expensive due to large data transfer requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates optimized copies of virtual machine images that are tailored for efficient network transfer. These copies use compression algorithms and selective data inclusion to reduce the overall data volume that needs to be transmitted across the network, thereby reducing bandwidth consumption and associated costs while still delivering functional virtual machines.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key parameters of the VM distribution process, including file format, compression level, and transfer protocol optimizations. By adjusting these parameters, the system reduces the effective data transfer volume required while maintaining VM functionality, directly addressing the expensive bandwidth consumption issue.
3Productivity
If virtual machines are distributed quickly, then provisioning time is reduced, but network bandwidth requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic bandwidth allocation and transfer rate adjustment during the VM distribution process. The system can adaptively increase bandwidth utilization during off-peak times or when network conditions permit, while maintaining fast provisioning overall. This dynamic approach allows high productivity without consistently requiring maximum bandwidth, balancing speed with resource efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus facilitates an enterprise to lease virtual appliances from network services provider. The method operates by deploying a converged networking and computing device at a service location, downloading a virtual network function to the converged networking and computing device, activating the virtual network function by a service in the wide area network, and connecting the virtual network function to a provisioned network path over the wide area network. Different virtual network functions can be deployed to different locations. The same virtual network function scan be deployed to different locations. Moreover, more than one virtual network function may be deployed to more than one service location. The virtual network functions can be realized through virtual machines, software containers, etc.