Distributed Ledger Root Cause Analysis Across Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication networks lack mechanisms for sharing root cause analysis (RCA) information across multiple networks while maintaining confidentiality and regulatory compliance, leading to sub-optimal analysis processes due to network silos and limited data exchange between operators.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a distributed ledger to record and share global root cause decision trees among network operators, translating local RCA mechanisms into nodes of a global decision tree, ensuring secure data sharing and updating without disclosing confidential information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If network operators share RCA information across multiple networks, then root cause analysis effectiveness is improved, but data security and regulatory compliance are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a distributed ledger as an intermediary system that enables secure sharing of RCA information between network operators. The ledger provides a trusted environment where operators can exchange data without direct trust relationships, using cryptographic verification and consensus mechanisms to ensure security and compliance while maintaining analysis effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments RCA information into discrete, verifiable entries within the distributed ledger. Each operator maintains control over their own data while sharing specific anonymized or authorized portions, allowing selective information exchange that balances analytical benefits with security requirements.
2Productivity
If network operators share RCA information across geographical borders, then global root cause analysis is improved, but regulatory compliance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The distributed ledger system allows each network operator to maintain local control over their RCA data while participating in a global sharing framework. Operators can configure their data sharing policies to comply with local regulations while still benefiting from global analysis capabilities through the shared ledger.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates verification and validation mechanisms that provide feedback to operators about data sharing compliance. The distributed consensus process ensures that all participants adhere to agreed-upon regulatory frameworks while enabling cross-border information exchange.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If network operators maintain isolated RCA processes, then data confidentiality is maintained, but analysis quality is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The distributed ledger creates a shared copy of RCA information that can be verified by multiple operators without requiring direct access to original data sources. This copying mechanism allows operators to maintain confidentiality over their raw data while still accessing verified copies for analysis purposes.
Data Source
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AI summary
Method and system for Root Cause Analysis (RCA) across multiple network systems are described. Update information of a first local root cause analysis mechanism is received. An RCA controller generates, based on the update information, a new node to be added to a global root cause decision tree, where the global root cause decision tree is to be shared by at least two of the plurality of network operators. The RCA controller requests storage of the new node in a distributed ledger that is shared by network operators. The RCA controller participates in a verification operation of the new node. In response to determining that the verification operation is successful, the RCA controller adds an entry including the new node to the distributed ledger as part of the global root cause decision tree. Alternatively, when the verification operation is not successful, the new node is not added to the distributed ledger.