ERPS Ring Network Loop Prevention via Configuration Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ethernet ring protection switching (ERPS) protocol settings can become incorrect across multiple network elements, leading to network loops and outages due to administrator errors or outdated data, which affects the operation of virtual local area networks (VLANs) and degrades network performance.
Innovation Solution
A method is implemented where network elements receive administrative data packets containing ERPS membership settings, compare these settings with their own, and take corrective actions if discrepancies are found, ensuring accurate configuration and preventing network failures by adding ERPS membership settings to reserved fields in administrative data packets and sending them across the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual configuration of ERPS settings is used across network elements, then initial setup is straightforward, but configuration errors and inconsistencies occur leading to network loops and outages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where network elements automatically exchange ERPS membership setting information through administrative data packets and compare configurations. When inconsistencies are detected, the system provides feedback to identify and correct configuration errors, preventing network loops and outages while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables network elements to automatically detect and correct their own configuration errors by comparing ERPS settings with neighboring elements. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual verification and reduces configuration inconsistencies, improving network reliability without increasing operational complexity.
2Device complexity
If ERPS membership settings are not verified across network elements, then network operation is simple, but configuration inconsistencies lead to detection of network loops and outages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having network elements continuously exchange and verify ERPS membership settings before network loops or outages can occur. This proactive verification through administrative data packets prevents configuration inconsistencies from developing into actual network failures, maintaining connectivity without excessive complexity.
3Reliability
If administrative data packets are enhanced with ERPS membership settings, then configuration consistency is improved, but data packet complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing administrative data packets multi-functional by incorporating ERPS membership setting information into their structure. This allows the same data packets to serve both their original purpose and the additional function of configuration verification, improving consistency without requiring entirely new communication protocols or excessive structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for managing an Ethernet ring protection switching (ERPS) protocol in an Ethernet network. The method includes receiving an administrative data packet at a first network element; determining whether the administrative data packet contains an ERPS membership setting from a second network element; when the administrative data packet contains the ERPS membership setting from the second network element, comparing an ERPS membership setting at the first network element to the ERPS membership setting from the second network element; and performing an action when the ERPS membership setting at the first network element is different than the ERPS membership setting from the second network element.