Hierarchical Resource Groups for Network Switch Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network fabric systems face challenges in managing configuration information due to the large amount of physical memory required to store configuration files for numerous resources, leading to cost and scaling constraints that limit network growth and performance.
Innovation Solution
A network management module is implemented to dynamically manage configuration information by using hierarchical resource groups and configuration files, where each resource group inherits configuration settings from higher-level groups, reducing the need for separate configuration files for each resource and minimizing memory usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If configuration files are stored separately for each network resource, then complete configuration information is maintained, but physical memory requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements hierarchical configuration files where parent configuration files contain configuration information for multiple child resources. Child resources are nested within parent resources, allowing shared configuration data to be stored once at the parent level and inherited by children. This nesting structure eliminates redundant storage while maintaining complete configuration information for all network resources.
Solution Approach 2:
Parent configuration files serve multiple functions: they store configuration information for the parent resource itself, serve as templates for child resources, and provide inherited configuration data to multiple child resources simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows a single configuration file to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate configuration files, reducing overall memory usage.
2Quantity of substance
If hierarchical resource groups are implemented, then memory usage is reduced through inheritance, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments configuration management into hierarchical levels (parent and child resources) with clear separation of concerns. Each configuration file is divided into inheritable configuration data and resource-specific configuration data. This segmentation allows the system to manage complexity by organizing configuration information in a structured, hierarchical manner rather than as flat, monolithic files.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces configuration inheritance mechanisms as intermediaries between parent and child resources. The inheritance system acts as a mediator that automatically resolves configuration data needs by combining parent configuration information with child-specific overrides. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall system by handling the complexity of configuration propagation automatically, rather than requiring manual management of multiple separate configuration files.
3Adaptability or versatility
If configuration changes are propagated dynamically, then network flexibility is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-establishing hierarchical configuration relationships and inheritance patterns before configuration changes are needed. The system pre-processes configuration data to identify inheritable elements and their relationships, so that when configuration changes occur, only the specific modified portions need to be propagated rather than reprocessing entire configuration files. This preparation reduces the time required for dynamic configuration updates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic configuration management where configuration files can be updated incrementally and changes propagated selectively through the hierarchy. The system dynamically determines which child resources need to receive configuration updates based on the parent-child relationships and the specific changes made. This dynamic approach allows the system to maintain flexibility while minimizing unnecessary processing and update time by only propagating changes where needed.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a network management module configured to execute at a network device operatively coupled to a switch fabric. The network management module is configured to receive a first set of configuration information associated with a subset of network resources from a set of network resources, the set of network resources being included in a virtual local area network from a plurality of virtual local area networks, the plurality of virtual local area networks being defined within the switch fabric. The first set of configuration information dynamically includes at least a second set of configuration information associated with the set of network resources.