| 主权项 |
1. A method implemented in a network element in a service network, the network element to execute a packet processing element (PPE) of a plurality of PPEs, where each PPE in the plurality of PPEs executes a stage of packet processing for the service network, where the plurality of PPEs are connected to one another by a plurality of switch fabrics, the PPE to self-select a subset of a set of equivalent service chains to service, each service chain defining a subset and sequence of the plurality of PPEs, the PPE to self-select the subset of equivalent service chains to process based upon knowledge of the plurality of PPEs servicing that stage of the set of service chains such that there is spreading of load across all available PPEs in that stage, there is no single point of failure and minimal reassignment of PPEs for a set of equivalent data flows traversing the plurality of PPEs of the service network from changes in topography of the plurality of PPEs in the service network, the method comprising the steps of:
detecting a change in the topology of the plurality of PPEs; generating a next load balancing (LB) table to adjust service chain routes for the changed topology, the generating using a shared transform algorithm to replace a current LB table, the next LB table and the current LB table identifying next hops for all service chains in the service network; sharing the current LB table and the next LB table with the plurality of PPEs in the service network; transitioning the PPE to the next LB table by replacing the current LB table; and programming an upstream switch fabric to forward to itself a specific subset of frames selected by the PPE for processing according to the next LB table. |
