DUT Topology Discovery for Network Test Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network equipment test devices do not allow specification or autodiscovery of DUT topology information, requiring manual interpretation of packet statistics for identifying configuration errors, which is cumbersome due to the voluminous nature of network test data.
Innovation Solution
Implementing methods and systems for specifying or autodiscovering DUT topology information, using topology discovery packets, and generating DUT-topology-specific test results, allowing users to input or automatically determine DUT topology, and using this information to visualize, analyze, and reconfigure test cases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual interpretation of packet statistics is used to identify configuration errors, then current network equipment test devices can operate with basic functionality, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming due to the voluminous nature of network test data
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically discovers DUT topology information by having DUTs themselves provide topology data through topology discovery packets, eliminating the need for manual interpretation. The test device automatically processes this information to generate topology-specific test results, making the system self-sufficient in topology awareness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from DUTs in the form of topology discovery packets to automatically update topology information. This feedback mechanism enables continuous automatic discovery and verification of topology changes, replacing manual interpretation with automated feedback-driven updates.
2Measurement precision
If DUTs are treated as a black box without topology information specification, then current network equipment test devices maintain simple operation, but configuration errors associated with DUTs cannot be automatically identified
Solution Approach 1:
DUTs automatically provide their own topology information through topology discovery packets, eliminating the need for external manual configuration. Each DUT serves itself by advertising its topology details, which the test device then processes to generate accurate topology-specific test results.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary topology discovery before actual testing by having DUTs send topology discovery packets. This preliminary action establishes the topology database in advance, enabling accurate configuration error detection during subsequent tests without adding complexity to the testing process itself.
3Loss of information
If topology information is manually configured, then test administrators have control over test parameters, but the voluminous network test data becomes difficult to interpret without automated assistance
Solution Approach 1:
DUTs automatically advertise their topology information through topology discovery packets, ensuring complete topology information availability without requiring manual configuration. The test device automatically processes this information, making test result analysis as easy as viewing automatically generated topology-specific results.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical processes of topology configuration and data interpretation with automated electronic processes. Topology discovery packets automatically provide information that would otherwise require manual setup, and the system automatically processes voluminous data to generate interpretable topology-specific test results.
Data Source
AI summary
The subject matter described herein includes methods, systems, and computer readable media for providing for specification or autodiscovery of DUT topology information and for using the DUT topology information to generate DUT-topology-specific test results. One exemplary method includes, providing for specification or autodiscovery of DUT topology information associated with or more devices under test (DUT). The method further includes transmitting test packets to the at least one DUT. The method further includes receiving packets transmitted from or through the at least one DUT. The method further includes using the DUT topology information and the received packets to generate DUT-topology-specific test results.