Intent Management Capability Matching for Cross-Vendor Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and cost of managing network devices across different vendors in a complex network environment, combined with the inefficiency of repeatedly adjusting intents to match actual network environments, hinder effective network operations and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
An intent management method that involves a first apparatus receiving intent management capability information from a second apparatus, generating target intent information based on this information and a management requirement, and sending it to the second apparatus to improve matching and reduce repetitive adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional network management using network instructions is used, then network devices can be managed, but the complexity and cost of operations and maintenance increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intent management system as an intermediary layer between operators and network devices. The intent management system translates high-level intent descriptions into specific network instructions, shielding operators from the complexity of vendor-specific command languages and protocols. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by maintaining operational simplicity while handling the underlying complexity automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates abstract intent models that represent network management requirements independently of specific device implementations. These intent copies or abstractions allow operators to manage networks through standardized concepts rather than device-specific instructions, reducing operational complexity while maintaining full control over diverse network devices.
2Reliability
If intents are repeatedly adjusted to match actual network environment, then service requirements can be met, but time consumption and inefficiency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs capability matching and intent validation in advance before intent execution. The intent management system pre-checks whether the network environment supports the intended service requirements and automatically adjusts intents to match actual capabilities before deployment. This preliminary action prevents the need for repeated adjustments during execution, saving time while ensuring service requirements are met.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the intent management system continuously monitors the actual network environment and compares it with intent requirements. When mismatches are detected, the system automatically adjusts intents based on real-time feedback about network capabilities, reducing the need for manual repeated adjustments and accelerating the matching process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If operator manually learns operation instructions of different devices, then network devices can be managed, but manpower investment and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal intent management system that can manage multiple vendor-specific network devices through a single standardized interface. The intent management system translates vendor-specific instructions into universal intent descriptions, allowing operators to manage diverse equipment without learning multiple proprietary command languages. This multi-functionality approach reduces manpower investment while maintaining adaptability across different device vendors.
4Productivity
If intent management capability information is not considered, then intent generation is simplified, but matching degree with network environment decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent retrieves and analyzes intent management capability information in advance before generating intents. The system pre-fetches capability data from the network environment and uses it to guide intent generation, ensuring that created intents are both efficient and precisely matched to actual network capabilities. This preliminary capability assessment resolves the contradiction by enabling efficient generation without sacrificing matching precision.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of this application disclose an intent management method and a related apparatus. The method includes: A first apparatus receives intent management capability information from a second apparatus, where the intent management capability information indicates intent management capability information supported by the second apparatus. Then, the first apparatus generates target intent information based on first information and a service requirement. Finally, the first apparatus sends the target intent information to the second apparatus. The target intent information is generated based on the service requirement and the intent management capability information supported by the second apparatus, and the target intent information meets a management requirement. Therefore, a degree of matching between the target intent information and the second apparatus can be effectively improved. This avoids a problem that the target intent information does not match the second apparatus, avoids repeated adjustment of the delivered intent information, and improves efficiency.