{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853869","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9853869","title":"System, method, and computer program for automatically instructing a virtual network function (VNF) to operate in accordance with one of a plurality of function definitions","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2015-01-27T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04L","H04L","H04L"],"num_claims":16,"abstract":"A system, method, and computer program product are provided for instructing a virtual network function (VNF) to operate in accordance with one of a plurality of function definitions. In use, a virtual service including a plurality of VNFs is identified, the virtual service being a virtual service in a Network Function Virtualization (NFV-based) communication network, and at least one of the plurality of VNFs being capable of operating based on any one of a plurality of function definitions. Additionally, information associated with a current operation of the virtual service is received. Furthermore, it is determined which one of the plurality of function definitions the at least one of the plurality of VNFs is to operate, based on at least one of a plurality of policies and the information. Moreover, the at least one of the plurality of VNFs is automatically instructed to operate in accordance with the determined one of the plurality of function definitions."},"analysis":{"summary":"The System, Method, and Computer Program for Automatically Instructing a Virtual Network Function (vnf) to Operate in Accordance with One of a Plurality of Function Definitions patent addresses the challenge of dynamically configuring virtual network functions (VNFs) in Network Function Virtualization (NFV)-based communication networks. The core innovation lies in automating the process of instructing a VNF to operate according to the most appropriate function definition from a range of options, based on real-time network conditions and predefined policies.\n\nThe problem being solved is the inefficiency and complexity of manually configuring VNFs in response to changing network demands. Traditional methods are slow, error-prone, and costly, hindering the agility and responsiveness of modern networks. This technology overcomes these limitations by continuously monitoring the virtual service and using predefined policies to determine the optimal function definition for each VNF.\n\nThe key technical approach involves a system with several components, including a virtual service identifier, an information receiver, a policy engine, and a VNF instruction module. The system identifies virtual services, collects data about their current operation, and uses the policy engine to determine the optimal function definition for each VNF. The VNF instruction module then automatically instructs the VNF to operate accordingly.\n\nThe business value lies in improved network performance, reduced operational costs, and increased agility. By automating VNF configuration, the system enables network operators to respond quickly to changing demands and deliver more dynamic and personalized services. This leads to improved customer satisfaction, reduced capital expenditures, and new revenue streams. The market opportunity is significant, as NFV becomes increasingly prevalent in modern networks, the ability to dynamically configure VNFs will become a critical differentiator.","layman_explanation":"The System, Method, and Computer Program for Automatically Instructing a Virtual Network Function (vnf) to Operate in Accordance with One of a Plurality of Function Definitions patent addresses a critical challenge in modern communication networks: how to efficiently manage and optimize virtual network functions (VNFs).\n\n**1. What Problem Does This Solve?**\nImagine a large company with a complex computer network. This network relies on various virtual appliances, such as firewalls, load balancers, and intrusion detection systems, all running as software. These virtual appliances are called VNFs. Traditionally, configuring these VNFs to respond to changing network conditions (like increased traffic or security threats) requires manual intervention by IT staff. This is slow, costly, and prone to errors. Existing solutions often lack the ability to dynamically adapt to real-time network conditions, leading to inefficiencies and potential service disruptions.\n\n**2. How Does It Work?**\nThis patent presents a system that automates the process of configuring VNFs. Think of it like a smart thermostat for your network. The system continuously monitors the network's performance and security. When it detects a change (e.g., a spike in traffic or a potential security breach), it automatically adjusts the settings of the VNFs to optimize performance and security. It does this by using predefined policies that specify how each VNF should behave under different conditions. For example, if the system detects a surge in traffic, it can automatically increase the capacity of the load balancer VNF. If it detects a potential security breach, it can automatically activate a more aggressive security profile on the firewall VNF. The key is that it's all done automatically, without the need for manual intervention.\n\n**3. Why Does This Matter?**\nThis technology has the potential to significantly improve the efficiency and reliability of communication networks. By automating VNF configuration, it reduces the need for manual intervention, freeing up IT staff to focus on more strategic tasks. It also minimizes the risk of human error, leading to more consistent and reliable network performance. Furthermore, the system's ability to adapt to changing conditions in real-time enables the delivery of more dynamic and personalized services. This translates to cost savings, improved customer satisfaction, and increased revenue opportunities. The market impact could be substantial as network operators look for ways to streamline their operations and improve their service offerings.\n\n**4. What's Next?**\nThe future applications of this technology are promising. As networks become more complex and dynamic, the need for automated VNF configuration will only increase. We can expect to see further advancements in the policy engine, incorporating machine learning techniques to make even more intelligent decisions. The market adoption timeline will depend on the willingness of network operators to embrace NFV and automation. However, the potential benefits are so compelling that widespread adoption seems inevitable. This could have major investment implications for companies that develop and deploy this technology.","technical_analysis":"The System, Method, and Computer Program for Automatically Instructing a Virtual Network Function (vnf) to Operate in Accordance with One of a Plurality of Function Definitions patent details a system designed to automate the configuration of Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) within a Network Function Virtualization (NFV) environment. The technical architecture comprises several key components working in concert to achieve dynamic VNF management.\n\nAt the heart of the system is a virtual service identifier, responsible for pinpointing the specific virtual service requiring configuration. This identifier likely relies on metadata associated with the virtual service, allowing the system to track and manage individual services within the broader network. Complementing this is the information receiver, which gathers real-time data about the virtual service's operational status. This data may include metrics such as traffic volume, latency, error rates, and resource utilization. The information receiver likely interfaces with various monitoring tools and APIs to collect this information.\n\nThe policy engine is the brains of the operation, using the information received to determine the optimal function definition for each VNF. This engine likely employs a rule-based system or a more sophisticated machine learning algorithm to evaluate the data against predefined policies. These policies could be based on a variety of factors, such as service level agreements (SLAs), resource constraints, or security requirements. The policies could also be updated dynamically based on network conditions or business priorities.\n\nFinally, the VNF instruction module is responsible for translating the policy engine's decisions into concrete actions. This module communicates with the VNFs using standardized interfaces and protocols, instructing them to switch to the appropriate function definition. This communication may involve sending configuration commands, updating parameters, or triggering specific actions within the VNF. The implementation details of this module are crucial for ensuring reliable and secure VNF management.\n\nThe integration patterns for this system are likely to involve tight coupling with existing NFV orchestration platforms. The system could be implemented as a plugin or extension to these platforms, leveraging their existing capabilities for VNF deployment and management. The performance characteristics of the system will depend on the efficiency of the policy engine and the speed of communication with the VNFs. Code-level implications include the need for robust error handling, security measures, and scalability considerations.","business_analysis":"The System, Method, and Computer Program for Automatically Instructing a Virtual Network Function (vnf) to Operate in Accordance with One of a Plurality of Function Definitions patent presents a significant market opportunity within the rapidly growing Network Function Virtualization (NFV) landscape. The core value proposition lies in automating VNF configuration, leading to improved network performance, reduced operational costs, and increased agility. The market opportunity size is substantial, as NFV becomes increasingly prevalent in modern networks. According to industry reports, the global NFV market is projected to reach billions of dollars in the coming years, driven by the demand for more flexible and scalable network infrastructure.\n\nThe competitive advantages of this technology stem from its ability to dynamically configure VNFs based on real-time network conditions and predefined policies. This enables network operators to respond quickly to changing demands and deliver more dynamic and personalized services. This is a key differentiator compared to traditional methods of VNF configuration, which are often slow, error-prone, and costly.\n\nThe revenue potential of this technology is significant. It can be monetized through various business models, such as licensing the technology to network operators, offering it as a managed service, or integrating it into existing NFV orchestration platforms. The strategic positioning of this technology is strong, as it addresses a key pain point for network operators: the complexity and inefficiency of managing VNFs. By automating VNF configuration, this technology enables network operators to focus on more strategic tasks, such as developing new services and improving customer satisfaction.\n\nThe ROI projections for this technology are compelling. By reducing operational costs, improving network performance, and enabling new revenue streams, this technology can deliver a significant return on investment for network operators. The business implications of this technology are far-reaching. It has the potential to transform the way networks are managed and operated, paving the way for more agile, efficient, and intelligent networks.","faqs":null,"topics":[],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"System, method, and computer program for automatically instructing a virtual network function (VNF) to operate in accordance with one of a plurality of function definitions","description":"A system, method, and computer program product are provided for instructing a virtual network function (VNF) to operate in accordance with one of a plurality of function definitions. In use, a virtual","keywords":[]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853869","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853869","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"System, method, and computer program for automatically instructing a virtual network function (VNF) to operate in accordance with one of a plurality of function definitions\" (US-9853869). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853869","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853869","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9853869","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-31T01:51:42.458Z"}