CCRP Protocol Automates Network Device Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for collateral configuration in networks are complex and inflexible, especially in large setups, requiring manual intervention and being outdated, which complicates enabling or disabling services like VPNs across multiple network devices.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a Collateral Configuration Request Protocol (CCRP) that allows network devices to automatically configure themselves and other infrastructure devices to enable or disable services by sending protocol messages based on the service configured, reducing the need for manual administrator intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual collateral configuration is performed by network administrators reading documentation, then configuration accuracy can be achieved, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming in large networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic collateral configuration where network devices autonomously generate and process configuration requests without administrator intervention. The service-providing device automatically sends collateral configuration requests to infrastructure devices, which automatically generate configuration data and send it to service-accessing devices, eliminating manual documentation reading and configuration time while maintaining accuracy through automated protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an automatic configuration protocol as an intermediary between network devices. This protocol mediates the configuration process by automatically translating service requirements into infrastructure configuration commands, replacing the manual intermediary role of network administrators reading documentation and reducing both time and potential for human error.
2Measurement precision
If static configuration is used by removing network devices from the network, then configuration accuracy is improved, but network availability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic configuration where network devices prepare and exchange configuration data before actual configuration changes are applied. The automatic protocol allows devices to pre-negotiate configuration parameters and validate them before implementation, ensuring accuracy without requiring device removal from the network, thus maintaining continuous availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from static configuration (requiring device removal) to dynamic configuration (performed while devices are operational). The automatic collateral configuration protocol enables real-time configuration exchanges and updates while devices remain connected and functional, simultaneously achieving configuration accuracy and maintaining network availability throughout the process.
3Ease of operation
If conventional manual methods are used for service deployment across multiple devices, then configuration control is maintained, but device complexity and administrative effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal automatic configuration protocol that can be applied across diverse network devices and service types. This single protocol handles various configuration scenarios (service deployment, modification, removal) across multiple infrastructure devices uniformly, reducing administrative complexity while maintaining control through standardized automated procedures rather than device-specific manual processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables network devices to autonomously perform configuration tasks that previously required administrator intervention. Devices automatically generate configuration requests, process responses, and apply settings based on service requirements, dramatically reducing administrative effort and perceived complexity while maintaining configuration control through automated validation and protocol enforcement.
4Productivity
If automated protocol-based configuration is implemented, then productivity and ease of operation improve, but reliance on automation increases system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the configuration process into distinct automated phases: service-providing device generates configuration requests, infrastructure devices process requests and generate configuration data, and service-accessing devices receive and apply configuration. This segmentation enables high productivity through parallel automated processing while managing complexity by dividing the protocol implementation into manageable, standardized components with clear interfaces between them.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment of the invention, a method for automating collateral configuration in a network is provided. A service is configured on a network device (termed as service providing device). The service providing device sends a Collateral Configuration Request Protocol (CCRP) message to other network devices (termed as service accessing devices). The service accessing devices process the CCRP message for their automatic collateral configuration in order to access the configured service on the service providing device.