Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ)
Methods and Apparatus for Life Cycle Management in Virtual Networks

Abstract:

Embodiments described herein provide methods and apparatus for life cycle management in virtual networks. A method, in a Life Cycle Management, LCM, component in a virtual network, wherein the virtual network comprises a first orchestration layer comprising a first network function virtualisation orchestrator, NFVO, and a second orchestration layer, subordinate to the first orchestration layer, comprising a second NF VO, comprises: receiving a first request, from the first NFVO, to determine a first substitution for a first VNF in a first network service request, wherein the first substitution maps the first network service request onto the second orchestration layer; and responsive to a determination, based on a topology of the second orchestration layer, that the first substitution comprises a second VNF associated with the second NFVO, receiving a second request from the second NFVO to provide a second substitution for the second VNF in a second network service request, wherein the second substitution maps the second network service request onto a third network layer, and the second network service request implements at least part of the first network service request.