In-band Network Configuration via Dual-Protocol Node Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods of reconfiguring data networks require out-of-band networks, increasing capital and operating expenditures, and can disrupt network functionality if configuration updates are not properly ordered.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method to reconfigure networks in-band using a logical out-of-band network, where nodes support multiple independent communication protocols like IPv4 and IPv6, allowing configuration updates to be made without additional physical resources and without disrupting existing network functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an out-of-band network is used for reconfiguration, then network configuration updates can be sent reliably, but capital expenditures and operating expenditures increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control plane and data plane by using the same network infrastructure for both configuration updates and data transmission. The in-band configuration approach combines previously separate functions (out-of-band management and in-band data) into a single network path, eliminating the need for dedicated out-of-band infrastructure while maintaining configuration reliability through protocol design.
Solution Approach 2:
The network infrastructure is made universal by enabling it to serve dual purposes: carrying both configuration updates and data traffic simultaneously. The in-band configuration method allows the data network to function as both the management channel and the service channel, reducing overall infrastructure requirements while maintaining operational reliability.
2Productivity
If configuration updates are sent in parallel without ordering, then reconfiguration speed increases, but network functionality may be disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing configuration update sequences and node readiness states before actual reconfiguration begins. The system pre-establishes the order of configuration propagation and ensures nodes are prepared to receive updates in the correct sequence, allowing parallel processing while maintaining functional integrity through pre-planned update paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The in-band configuration system implements feedback mechanisms where nodes acknowledge receipt and successful application of configuration updates. This feedback loop allows the system to monitor reconfiguration progress in real-time, ensuring that updates are applied in the correct order and that network functionality is maintained throughout the process, enabling faster parallel reconfiguration when conditions permit.
3Ease of manufacture
If multiple communication protocols are supported at nodes, then in-band reconfiguration becomes possible without out-of-band network, but node complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the increasing universality of network nodes by utilizing their native ability to support multiple communication protocols (such as IPv4 and IPv6 dual-stack). Rather than viewing multi-protocol support as added complexity, the invention exploits this existing multi-functionality to enable in-band configuration, turning a potential drawback into an enabling feature that eliminates the need for separate out-of-band infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by having nodes use their own existing protocol capabilities to receive and process configuration updates. Nodes leverage their built-in multi-protocol support to handle both data traffic and configuration traffic, eliminating the need for separate dedicated management infrastructure and reducing overall system complexity despite individual node multi-functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, computer system, and computer program product include identifying, by one or more processors, a node in a network, where the node includes an incorrect configuration, where the incorrect configuration is a configuration utilized by a first communications protocol for communication with the node, and where the node includes another configuration utilized by a second communications protocol, for communication with the node. The one or more processors utilize the second communications protocol and the other configuration to access the node over the network and reconfigure the node to update the incorrect configuration to a new configuration.