Automated Active Directory Topology Creation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual entry of active directory topology information is time-consuming and resource-intensive, necessitating the development of automated systems and methods for creating and updating network topologies.
Innovation Solution
An automated system and method for creating and updating active directory topology using a computing device that processes a data input list to create or update active directory sites, subnets, site links, site link costs, and replication intervals, thereby streamlining the network configuration process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual entry of active directory topology information is used, then configuration accuracy can be maintained through human review, but time consumption and resource usage increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses spreadsheet data as a template or copy of the desired topology structure, automatically transferring this information into the active directory system. This eliminates manual entry while preserving accuracy through the structured format of the spreadsheet template.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual process of entering topology data with an automated computer-based system that reads spreadsheet files and programmatically creates active directory structures, site links, and replication schedules.
2Productivity
If automated creation of active directory topology is implemented, then time and resources are reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional system that can handle multiple topology creation tasks through a single automated process. The system can create sites, subnets, site links, and replication schedules simultaneously from one spreadsheet input, reducing overall system complexity despite the range of functions performed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spreadsheet template as an intermediary between user intent and system execution. This intermediary simplifies the interface complexity by providing a familiar, structured format that users can prepare independently, while the automated system handles the complex translation into active directory structures.
3Loss of time
If automated processing of topology data is used, then resource consumption is reduced, but measurement and validation precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements validation mechanisms that check the spreadsheet input data against required formats and constraints before processing. This feedback loop ensures data accuracy is maintained during automated processing, preventing errors from propagating through the topology creation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary validation and formatting checks on spreadsheet data before the automated topology creation process begins. This preliminary action ensures that only correctly formatted and validated data is processed, maintaining precision while enabling rapid automated execution.
Data Source
AI summary
An example system for creating an active directory topology may determine whether an active directory site corresponding to a site name stored in a data input list exists and create, in response to a determination that the active directory site does not exist, the active directory site. The system may also determine whether a subnet corresponding to a subnet name stored in the data input list exists and create, in response to a determination that the subnet does not exist, the subnet.