Method and apparatus for distributed data network traffic optimization
AssigneeVMware, Inc.
InventorsVictor de Souza Lima e Silva, Archit Baweja, Nithin Michael
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Embodiments disclosed include a method and apparatus for global traffic control and optimization for software-defined networks. In an embodiment, data traffic is optimized by distributing predefined metrics (data traffic information) to all controllers in the network. The predefined metrics are specific to local network switches and controllers, but are distributed to all peers at configurable intervals. “Local” as used herein implies one POP and its associated switch and controller. The method of distribution of local POP metrics is strictly in band using a packet as defined by the protocol used by the data network.
Claims20
A method for data network traffic optimization, the method comprising:
- a first network controller interpreting local data traffic information, wherein local data traffic information comprises at least latency, packet loss, and link utilization associated with a network switch local to the first network controller, wherein the first network controller comprises a processor;
- the first network controller creating an information packet;
- the first network controller directing its associated network switch to send the information packet to all network links connected to other switches in the same network;
- a second network controller in the same network receiving the information packet;
- and
- the second network controller forming on-the-fly data routing decisions based on the information packet.
A non-transitory machine readable medium storing a first network controller program which when executed by a processor performs data network traffic optimization, the first network controller program comprising sets of instructions for:
- interpreting local data traffic information, wherein local data traffic information comprises at least latency, packet loss, and link utilization associated with a network switch local to the first network controller;
- creating an information packet;
- and
- directing the associated network switch to send the information packet to all network links connected to other switches in the same network,
- wherein a second network controller in the same network receives the information packet and forms on-the-fly data routing decisions based on the information packet.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.