NETWORK ADDRESS TRANSLATION FOR VIRTUAL MACHINES

Smart overview of the Invention

Methods and systems are described for network address translation (NAT) specifically tailored for virtual machines. The process begins with receiving a data packet from a client, which includes essential header information such as destination and source IP addresses and ports. The system selects an appropriate destination virtual machine based on the destination port, modifies the packet to replace the original destination IP address with that of the chosen virtual machine, and then sends this modified packet to its new destination.

Technical Context

Cloud computing utilizes large collections of servers in data centers to provide users with computational resources and data storage. Users typically interact with applications hosted on these servers via web browsers or client software, with their data stored remotely rather than locally. This setup simplifies device management and allows for the execution of applications within virtual machines, which are simulated environments that utilize the host machine's resources.

Packet Modification Process

The described methods include several optional features to enhance functionality. For instance, the system can determine if the destination port corresponds to multiple port numbers associated with a virtual machine. Additionally, it can implement load balancing techniques when selecting a virtual machine based on the destination port. The modification may also involve changing the destination port in the packet header, which can be facilitated by the host operating system managing the virtual machine.

Advantages of Individual Port Mapping

By performing port mapping at individual host machines rather than through network gateways, the system enhances fault tolerance and overall performance. This approach simplifies gateway operations by reducing the complexity of NAT tables, allowing for easier replication and synchronization across multiple gateways. Furthermore, isolating port mapping processes within user space protects the operating system's kernel from potential malfunctions.

System Architecture and Functionality

The architecture involves host machines that manage virtual machines through a host operating system, enabling efficient execution of guest software. Each virtual machine operates independently, with allocated resources such as memory and disk space. The communication between virtual machines is facilitated through assigned network addresses, allowing them to interact seamlessly over internal or external networks while maintaining operational integrity even if one VM encounters issues.