Patent ID: 9225605
Filing Date: 2015-12-29
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
1. A method for mapping service modules on a network device, comprising: mapping a first one of a plurality of service modules to a first one of a plurality of virtual switches on the network device, wherein each of the plurality of service modules comprises respective external processing resources separate from the network device and configured to perform a respective service, and wherein the first service module is mapped to the first virtual switch such that the first service module performs the respective service for the first virtual switch by processing at least a portion of network data passing through the first virtual switch on the external processing resources of the first service module; retrieving service policy information for the plurality of virtual switches, the service policy information indicative of service requirements for each of the plurality of virtual switches; upon detecting an occurrence of a predefined event, determining a second one of the plurality of virtual switches to map the first service module to, based on a determination that the first service module is capable of satisfying at least one requirement of the second virtual switch, as specified in the service policy information; and mapping the first service module to the second virtual switch, such that the first service module processes at least a portion of network data passing through the second virtual switch on the external processing resources of the first service module.