Equinix’s patented technique for virtualized network functions (VNFs) enables domain isolation for networks connected to the VNF. The VNF includes cloud, management, and external virtual domains, ensuring secure access for VNF customers while restricting configuration access to specific domains. GlobalData’s report on Equinix gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Equinix, VPN tunneling was a key innovation area identified from patents. Equinix's grant share as of January 2024 was 55%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Patent granted for virtualized network functions with domain isolation
A recently granted patent (Publication Number: US11880705B2) discloses a computing device comprising processing circuitry coupled to a memory and a virtual network function (VNF) configured for execution by the processing circuitry. The VNF includes a cloud virtual domain, a management virtual domain, and an external virtual domain with a public Internet Protocol (IP) address. The external virtual domain is designed to receive an authentication request from a cloud client device on a public network, providing access credentials for a VNF customer. Upon validation of the access credentials, the VNF allows the cloud client device to configure the cloud virtual domain while restricting access to the external and management virtual domains.
Furthermore, the patent details a system incorporating a private cloud network, a private management network, and a VNF connected to a public gateway. The VNF consists of a cloud virtual domain, a management virtual domain, and an external virtual domain. Similar to the computing device, the external virtual domain receives authentication requests from cloud client devices on a public network, allowing access to the cloud virtual domain upon verification of valid credentials. The system emphasizes security measures such as determining client device access rights and utilizing virtual router functions and firewalls for network address translation and authentication request relay. Additionally, a public gateway with an access control list is included to manage network traffic to the VNF, ensuring authorized sources only.
In summary, the patent outlines a computing device and system architecture incorporating VNFs with distinct virtual domains to facilitate secure access and configuration by cloud client devices. The emphasis on authentication, network security, and access control mechanisms highlights the innovative approach to managing virtualized network functions in cloud environments, ensuring efficient and secure operations.
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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
