CLI Extension Language for Non-Native Application Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Software-defined networking (SDN) and Open Network Programming Environment face challenges in providing seamless administrative interfaces for non-native applications, making it difficult for network administrators to manage and configure these applications as they would native subsystems, especially in terms of command line interface (CLI) management and operational state access.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an Application Management Service (AMS) that allows for the extension of native administrative interfaces for non-native applications, enabling dynamic CLI extensions, runtime installation/uninstallation of application-defined interfaces, and support for configuration and operational commands, using a CLI Extension language to define syntax and metadata for application data structures, and on-the-fly conversion of commands to schema-defined syntax.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If control plane abstraction is implemented to simplify networking, then network management flexibility is improved, but administrative interface complexity increases for non-native applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer (application management service) between the native CLI and non-native applications. This mediator translates native CLI commands into application-specific commands and formats responses accordingly, allowing administrators to use familiar interfaces while accessing non-native applications without increasing perceived complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The application management service provides a universal interface that handles multiple application types through a single unified CLI. Instead of requiring separate administrative interfaces for each non-native application, the system creates a multi-functional service that can manage various applications through consistent command patterns and response formats.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic CLI extensions are added for non-native applications, then application configurability is improved, but interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically generates CLI commands and responses based on application schemas rather than using static predefined interfaces. The application management service can adapt command structures and response formats in real-time according to the specific application being accessed, enabling flexible configuration while maintaining interface simplicity through programmatic generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes parameters of the administrative interface dynamically based on the application being accessed. Instead of a fixed interface, the system modifies command syntax, available options, and response formats according to the application schema, allowing the interface to adapt its parameters to match the specific application requirements without manual configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If runtime installation/uninstallation of application interfaces is enabled, then system flexibility is improved, but management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The application management service enables runtime installation and uninstallation of application interfaces through automated processes. The system self-manages the registration and removal of application-specific CLI extensions without requiring manual intervention, allowing flexible system configuration while simplifying management through automation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided in one example embodiment and includes compiling a schema definition file associated with a non-native application into a command file, the non-native application being executable in connection with a network element; creating at least one parse chain for the non-native application; storing the at least one parse chain in a database; and receiving a first command associated with the non-native application from a network administrator. The method further includes parsing the received first command as specified by the at least one parse chain to extract data therefrom; and presenting the extracted data to the non-native application, in which the extracted data is formatted as specified in the associated schema definition file prior to the presenting.