Command Interface Customization for Multi-Vendor Network Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network administrators face complexity in managing multi-vendor networking equipment due to diverse command line interfaces (CLIs) and application programming interfaces (APIs, requiring highly knowledgeable staff and complicating configuration and management processes.
Innovation Solution
A system that provides user-specific customization of network configuration commands based on user roles, historical habits, and usage patterns, using natural language processing (NLP) to predict and auto-complete commands, with a command template database and sequence graph generated from documentation, and a user command history database to enhance intuitive configuration and management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple vendor-specific CLIs and APIs are used to manage different networking equipment, then the system can support diverse networking equipment from multiple vendors, but the complexity of configuration and management increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal natural language interface that can manage multiple vendor-specific networking equipment through a single standardized command structure. The system translates user-friendly natural language commands into vendor-specific CLI/API calls, allowing one interface to perform multiple vendor management functions without requiring staff to learn separate command-line interfaces for each vendor.
2Reliability
If highly knowledgeable network administration staff are trained to use multiple vendor-specific CLIs and APIs, then proper network configuration and management can be achieved, but the requirement for highly knowledgeable staff increases operational complexity and reduces ease of use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a natural language processing system as an intermediary between the network administrator and the vendor-specific equipment interfaces. This mediator translates simple natural language commands into the appropriate vendor-specific CLI/API calls, eliminating the need for administrators to directly learn or remember complex vendor-specific syntax while maintaining accurate device configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical memorization and manual execution of vendor-specific CLI commands with an automated natural language processing system. Instead of requiring staff to mechanically recall and type precise command syntax, the system uses NLP to interpret intent and automatically generate the correct technical commands, substituting human cognitive effort with automated processing.
3Measurement precision
If standard command line interfaces are used for networking equipment, then precise device control can be achieved, but the interface becomes less intuitive and more error-prone for users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional command interface approach by allowing users to speak naturally rather than forcing them to adhere to rigid command syntax. Instead of the equipment interface dictating how users must phrase commands, the system adapts to user language patterns, learning from command history and providing auto-completion suggestions that guide users toward precise commands while maintaining conversational ease.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to systems and methods that help a user manage a functional product. Every functional product, be it a service, device, or combination thereof, has one or more documents associated with it. These documents may include such documentation as: (1) Release Notes; (2) Configuration Guides; (3) command line interfaces (CLIs)/application program interfaces (APIs); (4) Data Sheets; (5) Installation Guides; (6) User Manuals; (7) Errata notices; and (8) other documentation. In embodiments, command extracted from the documents along with features available in the functional product and user history (if any) may be used to help suggest one or more commands for a user managing or using the functional product.