Executable Network Troubleshooting Procedures
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional network troubleshooting methods are inefficient and error-prone, requiring extensive manual effort and expertise, especially with complex networks, where repetitive CLI commands and lack of efficient knowledge sharing hinder quick problem resolution and increase costs.
Innovation Solution
A GUI-based system for creating Executable Procedures that automates network troubleshooting by visualizing network management tasks, allowing non-programmers to define and execute standardized procedures across multiple network devices, reducing the need for manual CLI command execution and facilitating knowledge transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual CLI commands are used for network troubleshooting, then network professionals can execute troubleshooting tasks, but the process becomes error-prone, time-consuming, and difficult to share
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates executable procedures that capture and store troubleshooting workflows as reusable templates. These procedures copy the expert knowledge and command sequences into standardized formats that can be automatically executed and shared across the organization, eliminating the need to manually recreate troubleshooting steps for each incident.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables junior professionals to perform complex troubleshooting tasks independently by providing them with pre-configured executable procedures. The procedures automatically execute diagnostic commands, analyze results, and guide users through resolution steps, allowing less experienced staff to handle issues that previously required senior expertise.
2Reliability
If standardized troubleshooting procedures are created, then knowledge sharing and repeatability improve, but the initial creation and standardization process requires significant effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent allows troubleshooting procedures to be created and standardized in advance during periods of low incident activity. Executable procedures are developed, tested, and stored in a library before being needed, so that when incidents occur, the pre-prepared procedures can be immediately deployed without delay.
Solution Approach 2:
The executable procedure framework creates versatile templates that can be applied across multiple network devices, platforms, and incident types. A single procedure can be customized and reused for various scenarios, reducing the total number of procedures needed and amortizing the standardization effort across many uses.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex network devices are managed manually, then flexibility is maintained, but the complexity of commands and parameters increases the learning curve and error rate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer between the user and complex network devices. Executable procedures serve as intermediaries that translate high-level user intentions into specific device commands. Users interact with simplified procedure interfaces rather than directly managing complex CLI parameters, reducing the learning curve while maintaining the ability to execute sophisticated diagnostic and configuration tasks.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for constructing and storing procedures for troubleshooting computer networks. A user can design and add troubleshooting steps, via a GUI, to define the procedure including annotations. Each step is configured to take an action on the network. The order of the steps can be re-arranged via the GUI. The procedure can be stored and re-executed by another user.