Weighted Packet Distribution Across Equal-Cost Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ECMP algorithms fail to account for general network traffic, leading to uneven burden on network devices and inefficient network operation, and require significant resources in terms of time and hardware for distribution.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method to distribute packets across equal-cost paths based on packet attributes using a distribution device with logic units that include lookup and referencing units to perform weighted distribution, reducing the burden on heavily loaded network devices and optimizing resource usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If ECMP algorithms are used to distribute packet traffic across equal-cost paths, then traffic distribution is achieved, but network devices may become overly burdened and network efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making different parts of the network (individual equal-cost paths) have different distribution characteristics based on their current traffic conditions. Instead of uniform distribution, each path receives traffic according to its local capacity and load state, achieving optimized traffic distribution that prevents any single device from becoming overly burdened
2Ease of operation
If ECMP algorithms are used for traffic distribution, then packet routing is enabled, but significant time and hardware resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing distribution weights for each equal-cost path based on their characteristics. This preparation work is done in advance, so when packet distribution is needed, the router can quickly consult the pre-computed weights without performing complex real-time calculations, thereby reducing execution time and resource consumption
Data Source
AI summary
A method of distributing data across a network having a plurality of equal-cost paths. Also, a device for distributing data over a network according to the method. The data, which is typically contained in data packets, may be distributed based on at least one attribute of each of the packets. The data may also be distributed according to a weighted distribution function that allows for unequal amounts of traffic to be distributed to each of the equal-cost paths.