Edge Network Proxy Agents for Unified Remote Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of managing heterogeneous edge networks in a unified manner is exacerbated by their heterogeneity, dis-aggregation, and varied functionalities, which complicates the integration of edge sites into cloud networks, particularly due to the lack of remote accessibility support in traditional network devices and the need for multiple management solutions for proprietary and third-party devices.
Innovation Solution
A unified network management system utilizing a cloud-based controller, secure network connectivity, and a containerized client with a proxy agent to integrate edge networks, enabling monitoring, scheduling, and troubleshooting through an event-driven workflow, supporting both proprietary and non-proprietary devices with minimal changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional network devices are used at edge sites, then device simplicity and ease of deployment are maintained, but remote accessibility and unified management capability are lost
Solution Approach 1:
A proxy agent is introduced as an intermediary component deployed on traditional network devices at edge sites. This proxy agent enables remote accessibility and unified management by acting as a mediator between the cloud-based network management system and the traditional network devices, allowing cloud-based control without requiring modifications to the core device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system architecture is segmented into cloud-based management components and edge-based execution components. The network management functionality is divided such that high-level management, monitoring, and control reside in the cloud, while lightweight proxy agents execute locally on network devices, enabling unified management without centralizing all functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple management solutions are deployed for proprietary and third-party devices, then device compatibility is improved, but system complexity and management overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The proxy agent is designed with universal functionality to work with both proprietary and third-party network devices through standardized protocols and interfaces. This single multi-functional component replaces the need for multiple device-specific management solutions, achieving broad device compatibility while simplifying the overall management architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enforces homogeneity by requiring all network devices to run the same proxy agent software, which standardizes the interface between diverse devices and the cloud management system. This homogeneous approach allows unified management of heterogeneous devices through a common protocol and interface layer.
3Reliability
If on-premise management is used for edge networks, then control and security are improved, but labor requirements and operational efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where the cloud-based management system monitors network device status, performance metrics, and security events in real-time. This enables automated response actions and proactive management, maintaining strong control while reducing the need for manual intervention and improving overall management efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The proxy agent enables self-service capabilities by allowing network devices to automatically report status, receive configuration updates, and execute management commands without requiring manual on-site intervention. This automation maintains security and control while significantly improving management efficiency and reducing labor requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method are provided which facilitate a unified network management for a heterogeneous edge enterprise network. In one aspect, the system establishes, by a cloud controller, a secure connection to an edge device in an edge network. The cloud controller deploys to the edge device a module which includes a proxy agent, thereby allowing the module to be installed on the edge device. The system monitors data obtained from the edge device based on a set of rules. Responsive to detecting a trigger condition based on the monitored data, the system performs a predetermined action corresponding to the detected trigger condition. The predetermined action can comprise sending a configuration command to be executed on the edge device or sending an action to be performed by the proxy agent on other entities communicatively coupled to the edge network (e.g., client devices and applications).