Method and Apparatus for Displaying Network Fabric Data

Abstract

The invention relates to graphical user interfaces for managing electronic networks, such computer networks, storage area networks (SANs), and the like. Specifically, the invention provides a simplified means of managing large numbers of parameters associated with devices in such networks. In a preferred embodiment, the invention provides a method of displaying devices forming a network. In a first step, a computer system associated with a graphical user interface queries the network to determine what devices are present in the network, and the interconnections of such devices. The results of this determination are stored, as is the time of this determination. Later, a second query is performed and the results are compared to the first query. Symbols representing elements of the network are displayed on the graphical user interface. When changes are detected between the first and second network query, the changes are indicated by altering the manner in which the symbols are displayed that represent the elements of the network that have changed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 273,024, entitled “Method and Apparatus for Displaying Network Fabric Data,” by Jennifer Lynn Grace, Nitin A. Mehendale, and Shannon L. Kohl and filed on Oct. 17, 2002, which is hereby incorporated by reference, and to which priority is claimed.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The invention relates to graphical user interfaces for managing electronic networks, such computer networks, storage area networks (SANs), and the like. Specifically, the invention provides a simplified means of managing large numbers of parameters associated with devices in such networks.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]The continuing development and implementation of networks represents a growing challenge for managing the complex and dynamic operations of such systems. Computing, data storage, and communications networks are just a few examples of ne...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention is a graphical user interface for managing electronic networks that allows users to easily manage large numbers of parameters associated with devices in such networks. The interface provides a simplified means of displaying devices in a network, and can display changes in device connections over time. The technical effects of the invention include improved efficiency and ease of management for network administrators, as well as improved visual representation of network structures and changes."

Problems solved by technology

The continuing development and implementation of networks represents a growing challenge for managing the complex and dynamic operations of such systems.

In some cases, the efficiency by which such an interface can be used to manage a network can actually impact the performance of the network, especially where a network system depends on operators to identify problems and conduct optimizations manually.

Channels, however, are not suited for providing connectivity among many clients and are not suited for small-packet bursty traffic.

Networks, however, are software intensive and are not able to meet the growing bandwidth requirements of many client / server applications.

In certain instances, a mismatch of such parameters can cause reconfiguration of the fabric.

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