Virtual Network Function Topology Management via Graphical User Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional NFV MANO frameworks face challenges in flexibly establishing and updating virtual network function topologies due to overdependence on descriptors, limiting rapid and simple configuration methods.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that includes a graphical user interface for managing virtual network functions and multi-access edge computing topologies, utilizing a processor and storage medium with modules like a management module, network function virtualization orchestrator, and network instantiation universal management module to generate provision data, internal topology information, and instantiate virtual network functions, allowing users to establish connections without writing descriptors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional NFV MANO framework uses descriptor to configure virtual network function topology, then the system can provision virtual network function, but the flexibility and speed of topology configuration and update is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a graphical user interface (GUI) as an intermediary between users and the virtual network function topology configuration system. The GUI provides visual topology management capabilities that allow users to configure and update topologies without directly manipulating complex descriptors, thereby increasing configuration speed and flexibility while reducing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the configuration approach by changing the parameter representation from text-based descriptors to visual graphical representations. This parameter transformation enables intuitive topology configuration through visual elements (nodes, edges, drag-and-drop operations) rather than requiring users to write or edit complex descriptor files, significantly improving productivity
2Ease of operation
If traditional NFV MANO framework relies on descriptor upload for virtual network function establishment, then the system can provision functions, but the ease of operation and flexibility for topology updates is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The GUI serves as an intermediary layer that abstracts the complex descriptor-based operation system. Users interact with simplified visual elements (graphical nodes, connection lines, drag-and-drop interfaces) rather than directly manipulating complex YAML or JSON descriptors, making topology management easier and more intuitive
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy representation of the topology structure through graphical elements that mirror the actual virtual network function connections. This visual copying allows users to understand and manipulate topology relationships intuitively, making operations easier without requiring knowledge of the underlying complex descriptor formats
Data Source
AI summary
A system and a method for managing a virtual network function (VNF) and a multi-access edge computing (MEC) topology are provided. The method includes the following steps. A first VNF descriptor (VNFD) corresponding to a first VNF is received. According to the first VNFD, first provision data is generated. According to the first VNFD, first internal topology information of the first VNF is generated. According to the first provision data, the first VNF is instantiated to be provisioned. In response to provisioning the first VNF, a graphical user interface including the first internal topology information is output, and the first internal topology information includes a network component communicatively connected to the first VNF.