All-or-none switchover to address split-brain problems in multi-chassis link aggregation groups

Abstract

Systems and methods utilize an all-or-none switchover to prevent split-brain problems in a Multi-Chassis Link Aggregation Group (MC-LAG) network. A standby node in the MC-LAG network can perform the steps of remaining in a standby state responsive to a loss of adjacency with an active node, wherein, in the standby state, all standby links between the standby node and a common endpoint are non-distributing; monitoring frames transmitted by the common endpoint to the standby node over the standby links; and determining based on the monitoring frames whether all active links between the active node and the common endpoint have failed and entering an active state with all the standby links distributing based thereon.

Description

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE[0001]The present disclosure generally relates to networking systems and methods. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods performing an all-or-none switchover to address split-brain problems in Multi-Chassis Link Aggregation Groups (MC-LAGs).BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE[0002]Link aggregation relates to combining various network connections in parallel to increase throughput, beyond what a single connection could sustain, and to provide redundancy between the links. Link aggregation including the Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP) for Ethernet is defined in IEEE 802.1AX, IEEE 802.1aq, IEEE 802.3ad, as well in various proprietary solutions. IEEE 802.1AX-2008 and IEEE 802.1AX-2014 are entitled Link Aggregation, the contents of which are incorporated by reference. IEEE 802.1aq-2012 is entitled Shortest Path Bridging, the contents of which are incorporated by reference. IEEE 802.3ad-2000 is entitled Link Aggregation, the conte...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a method and apparatus for preventing split-brain problems in a Multi-Chassis Link Aggregation Group (MC-LAG) network. The technical effect of this patent is to provide a solution that avoids the need for a configuration change on the DHD (Director of the MAC) and allows for all-or-nothing switchover without significant switchover time. This solution involves remaining in a standby state responsive to a loss of adjacency with the active node, monitoring frames transmitted by the common endpoint, and determining if all active links have failed or if there is a possibility of a failure. Standby nodes in the network can then enter an active state with all standby links distributing based on the monitoring results.

Problems solved by technology

However, this solution may lead to a significant switchover time since the underlying LACP would have to re-converge with the new system MACs.

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