Per Tenant Weighted ECMP and Flow Hash Load Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-tenant SD-WAN networks, existing technologies face challenges in dynamically adjusting load balancing across shared transport interfaces and automatically optimizing flow hashing algorithms to maintain acceptable traffic distribution as ingress traffic patterns change over time.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of per tenant weighted ECMP over shared transport interfaces and automated context-aware flow hash load balancing, where local edge devices calculate and apply weights based on tenant resource profiles and dynamically adjust flow hashing algorithms to optimize load balance across multiple tenants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a predetermined flow hashing algorithm is assigned to a tenant at onboarding, then the tenant can maintain a stable load balance initially, but the load balance becomes unacceptable when ingress traffic patterns change over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic flow hashing algorithm selection by continuously monitoring load balance metrics and automatically switching algorithms based on current traffic patterns. The system transitions from a static predetermined algorithm to a dynamic system that adapts to changing conditions, ensuring acceptable load balance throughout the tenant's operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop that continuously monitors load balance performance and uses this information to trigger algorithm changes. When load balance falls outside acceptable thresholds, the system responds by selecting a different flow hashing algorithm, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains reliability despite traffic pattern changes.
2Productivity
If multiple tenants share transport interfaces, then resource utilization improves, but weighted ECMP routing becomes complex to manage manually
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated weighted ECMP routing where the network infrastructure itself calculates and applies appropriate weights based on tenant resource profiles. Instead of requiring manual configuration, the system self-adjusts routing weights dynamically, reducing operational complexity while maintaining efficient multi-tenant resource sharing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent automatically adjusts routing parameters (weights) based on tenant-specific resource profiles and current network conditions. By dynamically changing these parameters rather than using fixed manual configurations, the system simplifies management while optimizing resource utilization across multiple tenants sharing transport interfaces.
3Reliability
If a tenant explicitly changes flow hashing algorithms, then load balance may improve, but there is no guarantee of improved load balance and requires tenant intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic flow hashing algorithm selection and switching without requiring tenant intervention. The automated system monitors load balance quality and independently selects optimal algorithms, eliminating the need for tenants to manually change algorithms while ensuring consistent load balance quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous monitoring of load balance metrics with automatic response through algorithm selection. This feedback-driven approach ensures reliable load balance by responding to performance degradation automatically, removing the burden of manual intervention from tenants while maintaining high load balance quality.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for automatically providing per tenant weighted DCMP over shared transport interfaces and automated flow has load balancing are described. The techniques may include onboarding, by an SD-WAN controller, the tenant with a resource profile to a first multi-tenant edge device, where the resource profile defines a traffic allowance per transport interface for the tenant on the first multi-tenant edge device. The SD-WAN controller receives, from the first multi-tenant edge device, information including a first weight per transport interface of the first multi-tenant edge device for the tenant. The SD-WAN controller transmits the information to a second multi-tenant device. The SD-WAN controller receives, from the second multi-tenant edge device, information including a second weight per transport interface of the second multi-tenant edge device, and transmits the information to the first multi-tenant edge device.