Data Link Layer Auto-Discovery for Network Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional auto-discovery techniques for network devices are limited to servers and require physical presence for initial configuration, relying on higher-level network services like DNS and DHCP, which may not be available or require multiple administrators, making it difficult to configure switches and network storage efficiently.

Innovation Solution

The method involves broadcasting a discovery packet at the data link layer for network devices to auto-discover and configure, using a management station that filters and responds with configuration information without relying on higher-level protocols, enabling auto-discovery and configuration of switches and network storage devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional auto-discovery techniques are used, then servers can be discovered and configured, but switches and network storage devices cannot be discovered without physical presence

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice type coverageVSAvoidconfiguration requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The network device automatically generates and transmits a discovery packet when it joins the network, enabling self-discovery without requiring physical presence or manual intervention. The device serves itself by initiating the discovery process through broadcasting its presence at the data link layer.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

A management station acts as an intermediary that receives discovery packets from joining devices, processes the information, and automatically configures the devices. The management station mediates between the joining device and the network configuration system, eliminating the need for physical presence.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Extent of automation

If higher-level network services like DNS and DHCP are used, then configuration can be automated, but multiple administrators and complex services are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfiguration automationVSAvoidservice dependency

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the auto-discovery and configuration functionality from higher-level network services like DNS and DHCP, implementing it directly at the data link layer. This removes the dependency on complex external services while maintaining automation capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The discovery packet is prepared and transmitted in advance when the device joins the network, before any higher-level configuration is needed. The essential discovery and configuration actions are performed preliminarily at the data link layer, eliminating the need for subsequent complex service interactions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9270791B2Discovery and configuration of network devices via data link layer communications

Publication Date: 2016.02.23 DELL PROD LP

AI summary

A method includes discovering a network device that has connected to a data link layer of a network based on a discovery packet broadcast by the network device via the data link layer. The method further includes configuring the network device based on a response packet transmitted to the network device via the data link layer in response to discovering the network device.