Automatic Network Loop Testing with Static Routes and Packet Filters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network testing methods, such as RFC 2544 and iPerf, require truck rolls and onsite technicians, are not instantaneous, and do not test the full path in modern networks using logical circuits and IP/MAC addresses, leading to delayed fault resolution and additional costs.
Innovation Solution
Implementing automatic loop testing through a computing system that establishes a static route, sends test data, applies filters to count and drop packets, and presents results instantly, without the need for physical loops or onsite technicians.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RFC 2544 testing is used to prove correct circuit bandwidth, then layer 2 bandwidth can be verified, but truck rolls and onsite technicians are required which increase cost and time
Solution Approach 1:
The network device under test autonomously performs bandwidth verification by receiving test data packets, tracking their transmission, and generating test results without external intervention. The device self-configures test parameters, executes the testing sequence, and reports results, eliminating the need for technician presence while maintaining reliable bandwidth verification.
Solution Approach 2:
A remote management system acts as an intermediary that initiates and monitors the testing process remotely. The system sends test commands to the network device, receives test results, and manages the entire testing workflow without requiring physical presence at the test site, thus reducing travel time while ensuring reliable testing.
2Reliability
If iPerf is used for network performance testing at layers 3-7, then application layer functionality can be verified, but onsite technician support is still required which increases operational cost
Solution Approach 1:
The network device autonomously executes iPerf-style performance tests by generating test traffic, measuring network performance metrics at layers 3-7, and reporting results without requiring technician assistance. The device self-manages the entire testing process including configuration, execution, and analysis, making operation simple while maintaining reliable application layer verification.
3Reliability
If traditional network testing methods are used, then fault detection can be performed, but the full path cannot always be tested and resolution is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The testing process is segmented into multiple sequential phases: configuration phase, test execution phase, and results reporting phase. Each phase is automated and can be executed remotely, allowing comprehensive full-path testing to be broken down into manageable segments that can be performed without delaying fault resolution while maintaining reliable detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The network device pre-configures test parameters, test data packets, and result reporting mechanisms before actual testing begins. This preliminary setup enables the device to immediately execute comprehensive full-path tests when faults are detected, eliminating setup delays and accelerating fault resolution while maintaining reliable detection.
4Measurement precision
If physical loops are used for network testing, then test data can be sent and measured, but modern networks using logical circuits cannot use this method
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical loop-based testing method with a logical/software-based testing approach. Instead of physically connecting test equipment to network devices, the invention uses software agents that run on network devices to generate, send, and measure test data packets through the logical network path, maintaining measurement precision while adapting to modern logical circuit networks.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates virtual copies of physical loop testing functionality through software simulation. Test data packets are generated and tracked through logical network paths, measuring performance metrics without requiring physical test loops. This copying approach maintains the measurement capabilities of traditional loop testing while adapting it to work with modern logical circuit architectures.
Data Source
AI summary
Novel tools and techniques are provided for implementing automatic loop testing. In various embodiments, a computing system may receive a request to test a network loop; may establish a static route to a target test device that is part of the network loop, the route comprising the network loop to the target test device and back; may execute an automated script to test the network loop, by: sending test data at a first rate to the target test device over the route; and applying a filter to the test data returning from the target test device over the route, the filter being configured to count packets of test data that has propagated over the route and compare with the sent packets of test data, and to drop the test data from continuing to propagate through the network loop; and may present results of the test of the network loop.