Interface Mode Negotiation for Network Element Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in ensuring compatibility and intercommunication between devices with diverse interface modes, particularly in scenarios requiring FlexE/MTN compatibility, leading to configuration errors and networking issues.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for sending interface information between network elements, which informs neighboring devices about supported interface modes and current working modes, enabling automatic configuration and compatibility adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a device interface supports multiple modes (Ethernet, FlexE, MTN), then the adaptability and versatility of the device is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need to manage and distinguish different interface modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (interface information negotiation protocol) that mediates between devices with different interface modes. This intermediary layer automatically negotiates and establishes compatible communication parameters between neighboring devices, eliminating the need for complex manual configuration and mode management while maintaining multi-mode support
2Reliability
If interface modes are manually configured to ensure compatibility, then the reliability of intercommunication is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to increased manual configuration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where devices automatically perform interface mode negotiation and compatibility configuration through embedded negotiation protocols. The system autonomously detects interface capabilities, exchanges mode information, and configures compatible parameters without human intervention, thereby maintaining reliable intercommunication while dramatically simplifying operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing interface mode negotiation and compatibility verification before actual data transmission begins. The negotiation protocol exchanges capability information and establishes compatible working modes in advance, ensuring reliable communication is set up proactively before any business data flows, thus eliminating the need for post-configuration troubleshooting
3Ease of operation
If automatic interface mode negotiation is implemented, then the ease of operation is improved by reducing manual configuration, but the loss of information increases due to the complexity of negotiating multiple interface modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the interface negotiation process into distinct, manageable information elements including capability advertisement, mode compatibility matching, and parameter configuration. By dividing the complex negotiation into structured segments with standardized information fields, the system automates the process while preserving all necessary interface capability information without loss or confusion
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided in the present disclosure are a method and equipment for sending interface message. The method comprises: sending an interface mode supported by a first interface of a first network element and/or a current working mode of the first interface to a second network element. The interface mode comprises at least one of an Ethernet mode, a flexible Ethernet (FlexE) mode, and a Metro Transmission Network (MTN) mode, and the second network element is a neighboring network element of the first network element.