In-Line Network Tap Embedded in Transceiver
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network taps require a separate power supply and are easily detectable, making them inconvenient for use in size-constrained environments and potentially compromising network security.
Innovation Solution
An in-line network tap is integrated into a transceiver or communication cable, using power from connected devices and adopting their MAC and IP addresses to remain undetectable, enabling monitoring and diagnostic functions without disrupting network communications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate network tap device is used, then network monitoring functionality is achieved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the network tap functionality with existing network infrastructure components (switches, routers, or cable systems) by integrating a network interface card and processing logic into these devices. This merging eliminates the need for separate tap devices while maintaining network monitoring capabilities, directly resolving the contradiction between functionality and device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If a separate network tap device is used, then network monitoring is enabled, but installation complexity and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the network tap functionality into existing network infrastructure components, the patent eliminates separate installation requirements. The monitoring capability is built into the switch, router, or cable system itself, requiring no additional设备安装 or separate power supply connections, thus resolving the installation complexity issue
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes existing network infrastructure components multi-functional by enabling them to perform both their primary functions (switching, routing, cable transmission) and network monitoring functions simultaneously. This universality eliminates the need for dedicated monitoring hardware and simplifies installation across diverse network environments
3Adaptability or versatility
If a separate network tap device is used, then monitoring functions are available, but detectability increases compromising security
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the monitoring functionality into legitimate network infrastructure components that are already present and authorized on the network. Since the monitoring capability resides within switches, routers, or cable systems that are expected to be there, it becomes indistinguishable from normal network operations, thereby eliminating the security risk of detectable foreign devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses existing network infrastructure components as intermediaries to perform monitoring functions. These intermediary devices (switches, routers, cable systems) naturally handle and inspect network traffic as part of their primary functions, allowing monitoring to occur without introducing detectable external monitoring equipment into the network
4Reliability
If power is supplied to a separate network tap device, then the device can operate, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables existing network infrastructure components to perform multiple functions (primary network operations and monitoring) using their existing power supply arrangements. Since these components are already powered as part of the network infrastructure, no additional power consumption is required for monitoring functions, resolving the energy consumption contradiction
Data Source
AI summary
An in-line network tap includes a network tap chip that is configured to analyze or otherwise process data packets as the data packets are transmitted within a network. The network tap chip can be embedded within a communication cable, such as an Ethernet or USB cable, either within the flexible cable portion of the cable or within a connector on either end of the communication cable. Alternatively, the network tap chip can be embedded within a transceiver. The in-line network tap can perform various processing including monitoring network performance, facilitating remote troubleshooting, data buffering, and intrusion detection and prevention.