Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ)
Management of a Virtual Network Function

Abstract:

There is provided a method of operating a virtual network function manager for management of a virtual network function. A first request to manage a virtual network function is received (404). The request comprises an indication of whether to select an alternative virtual resource for allocation if a requested virtual resource is unavailable for allocation. A second request for a virtual resource associated with the first request to manage the virtual network function is transmitted (406). The requested virtual resource has one or more predefined characteristics. If a response is received that indicates the virtual resource having the one or more predefined characteristics is unavailable for allocation (408), an alternative virtual resource is selected for allocation (412). The alternative virtual resource has one or more alternative characteristics comprising at least one alternative characteristic that is different to a corresponding one of the predefined characteristics.