Directory Server Automates Network Device Discovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for managing access to information about networked computer devices across disparate networks are cumbersome, requiring manual administration, compromising network security, and not scalable for heterogeneous networks.
Innovation Solution
A directory server system that registers and provides information about network devices across multiple networks, allowing devices to automatically discover and communicate with each other without manual intervention, maintaining network security and performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual techniques are used to manage access to information about networked computer devices, then network administrators can maintain lists of available devices, but the process becomes increasingly complex and burdensome as networks grow and devices become more mobile
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables network devices to automatically register themselves with the directory server and allows users to autonomously query and access device information without requiring manual administration. Devices publish their own availability status and capabilities, eliminating the need for administrators to manually update device lists
Solution Approach 2:
A directory server acts as an intermediary between network devices and users, centralizing the management of device information. The directory server receives registration data from devices, maintains an updated database of available resources, and processes user queries, thereby simplifying access while reducing administrative burden
2Loss of information
If continuous monitoring and modification of device lists is performed to accommodate mobile devices, then access information remains current, but substantial time and resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
Network devices automatically publish their presence and status information to the directory server, and update it when their availability changes. This self-service approach ensures information remains current without requiring continuous manual monitoring or intervention by administrators
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where devices continuously report their status to the directory server, which then updates the information database. This automatic feedback loop ensures that device availability information remains current while eliminating the need for continuous administrative intervention
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing methods are used to provide access to information about computer devices on disparate networks, then network connectivity is enabled, but network security is compromised by opening networks for public access
Solution Approach 1:
The directory server serves as a secure intermediary that mediates access requests between users and network devices. It authenticates users, validates device information, and controls access permissions, thereby enabling interoperability across disparate networks while maintaining security boundaries and preventing unauthorized access
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts sensitive network device information and access control logic from the network infrastructure itself and places it in a centralized directory server. This separation allows the network to remain secure while the directory server handles all access requests, preventing direct exposure of network resources to external threats
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, apparatus and methods are described for providing information access to network devices. A directory server registers identification information about a first network device coupled to a first network. The first network and the directory server may be coupled to a second network, which may include a wide area network, public network, or the Internet. The identification information may include a network address of the first network device on the first network, or a network address of the first network on the second network. The directory server may receive and process requests for identification information about registered network devices, and may selectively reply to the requests based on status information of the first network device.