Controlling Bridge Port Extension Topology Discovery via LLDP
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is no definitive method for obtaining the topology information of each Port Extension (PE) connected to the controlling bridge (CB) in the Data Center Bridging environment, which hinders the establishment of efficient data transmission channels.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) messages to instantiate ports and establish channels between the controlling bridge and Port Extensions, allowing the controlling bridge to determine the topology of connected PEs and configure E-tags for data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the controlling bridge uses traditional Ethernet protocols without topology discovery methods, then the system maintains simplicity and compatibility with existing standards, but the topology information of connected Port Extensions cannot be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces LLDP (Link Layer Discovery Protocol) as an intermediary mechanism between the controlling bridge and Port Extensions. LLDP messages serve as mediators that carry topology information without requiring complex custom protocols, thus resolving the contradiction by using a standardized intermediary protocol to transmit topology data while maintaining system compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the controlling bridge proactively send LLDP messages to discover and register Port Extensions before data transmission begins. The bridge pre-establishes the topology map by sending discovery messages and registering received PEs, so that when data needs to be transmitted, the topology information is already available without requiring complex real-time discovery protocols
2Measurement precision
If the controlling bridge implements comprehensive topology discovery methods, then complete topology information can be obtained, but the system complexity and implementation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the topology discovery process into distinct phases: sending LLDP messages to discover PEs, receiving E-channel register messages from PEs, and maintaining a topology information table. This segmentation breaks down the complex detection task into manageable steps, allowing the bridge to obtain complete topology information through a systematic, modular approach rather than a monolithic complex process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where Port Extensions send E-channel register messages back to the controlling bridge to confirm their registration and provide their port information. This feedback loop ensures the bridge receives accurate topology information from each PE, improving measurement precision while keeping the detection process manageable through structured information return protocols
3Reliability
If the controlling bridge establishes separate channels for each virtual terminal site using E-tags, then service isolation is achieved, but the number of channels and configuration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the E-tag mechanism universal by using a single E-tag field in LLDP and data messages to serve multiple functions: identifying the destination PE, selecting the appropriate egress port, and enabling service isolation. This multi-functionality allows one mechanism to achieve service isolation across multiple virtual terminal sites without requiring separate complex configurations for each site, thus reducing overall channel configuration complexity while maintaining reliability
Data Source
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AI summary
A method, system and controlling bridge (CB) for acquiring port extension (PE) topology information, and a method and system for processing an upstream port, wherein, the method for acquiring the port extension (PE) topology information includes: a CB receiving a link layer discovery protocol (LLDP) message sent by the PE, and perceiving an attachment of the PE; the CB receiving Extended Port Create message sent by the PE, and instantiating corresponding instantiated ports inside the CB. By adopting the above-mentioned technical scheme, the topology information of the PE connected to the CB can be obtained and a channel for forwarding data can be established, effectively.