Service Providers (SPs)
Last updated
Last updated
Service Providers (SPs) are the users of the Impossible Cloud Network (ICN) who require decentralised storage and computing resources. SPs access these resources by providing ICNT token requirements, which allows them to use the network’s distributed infrastructure.
SPs play a critical role in sustaining the ICN ecosystem, as their ICNT access requirements help reward Hardware Providers (HPs) and SLA Oracles, ensuring the network continues to function efficiently. By submitting capacity requests, SPs initiate the flow of resources and incentives within the network.
Service Providers (SPs) in the Impossible Cloud Network (ICN) use ICNT tokens to access the network’s decentralised storage and compute resources. By submitting capacity requests, SPs can allocate storage from Hardware Providers (HPs), who offer these resources for use across the network.
Submit Capacity Request: SPs submit a request for storage capacity, specifying:
The amount of storage required (e.g., 1PB).
The location where the storage is needed (e.g., a particular region, zone, or cluster).
The duration for which the storage is required.
Provide ICNT: To access the requested resources, SPs must provide ICNT tokens as access requirements. These fees are determined based on the Cluster_Price and the amount of storage requested.
Receive Network Resources: Once the request is processed and the ICNT access requirements are provided, SPs are allocated storage by the network and can begin using the resources.
For detailed information on how Access Requirements are calculated and distributed, visit the Access to Network Resources page.
When an SP submits a capacity request, the ICN protocol automatically assigns the request to the most suitable Hardware Provider (HP) within the network. This process ensures that SPs are allocated storage efficiently and that HPs are compensated fairly for the resources they provide.
Pre-Assignment: The protocol pre-assigns the requested storage to an HP based on several key factors:
Reservation Price: HPs set a minimum price (Reservation_Price) for the capacity they provide. HPs with lower prices are more likely to be selected for bookings.
Commitment Period: HPs with longer collateral commitment periods are prioritised in the selection process, as they are considered more reliable and committed to the network.
Cluster-Level Allocation: The protocol allocates capacity at the cluster level, meaning SPs do not select individual HPs. Instead, the network assigns the most cost-effective and available HP within a cluster.
Capacity can be requested and assigned at different levels:
Cluster-Level: Capacity is allocated within a specific cluster.
Zone-Level: If requested for a zone, the protocol selects a cluster within that zone and then allocates an HP.
Region-Level: For requests at the region level, the protocol assigns a zone, then a cluster, and finally an HP.
For further details on how capacity allocation works, visit the Capacity Allocation.
As participants in the Impossible Cloud Network (ICN), Service Providers (SPs) have certain responsibilities to ensure smooth operation and proper use of network resources.
SPs must ensure they have enough ICNT tokens available for the capacity they request from Hardware Providers (HPs). Access to network resources requires an upfront provision of ICNT as access to network resources, calculated based on the amount of capacity requested and the Cluster_Price.
SPs must provide accurate details regarding the amount, location, and duration of the storage capacity needed. Incorrect information may lead to failed capacity assignments or overcharges.
After capacity is assigned, SPs are responsible for managing and utilising the resources according to their request specifications. This includes efficiently storing and retrieving data within the allocated time frame.
