LAN Diagnostics Tool for In-Home Network Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network diagnostic tools primarily focus on WAN connections and do not effectively measure or analyze LAN network performance, lacking the ability to store test data for analysis and user annotation, which hinders identifying the root cause of poor service performance issues within customer home networks.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for remotely testing LAN networks through Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) using a LAN diagnostics tool that selects and executes appropriate test agents based on the execution environment, measuring throughput, packet loss, and latency, and storing results for analysis, allowing users to annotate and diagnose in-home network issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If prior LAN diagnostics tools are used, then throughput can be tested, but the quality of the in-home connection cannot be measured
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostic system is segmented into multiple independent test agents, each responsible for measuring specific network quality metrics such as packet loss, latency, and throughput. This segmentation allows comprehensive quality measurement while maintaining tool simplicity and ease of deployment on different devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The diagnostics tool is designed as a universal multi-functional system that can perform multiple types of network tests (throughput, packet loss, latency) across different execution environments (desktop, mobile, tablet). The system selects appropriate test agents based on the execution environment indicator, enabling it to measure comprehensive connection quality across diverse devices.
2Loss of information
If prior LAN diagnostics tools are used, then testing can be performed, but test data cannot be stored for further analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically storing test results and data in a structured format immediately after testing. This preliminary data retention capability enables subsequent analysis without requiring additional storage infrastructure, as the data is already captured and organized for further examination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary data storage layer between the test execution and analysis phases. This intermediary component captures and preserves test data, allowing users to review historical results and perform detailed analysis without adding significant complexity to the overall system architecture.
3Loss of information
If prior LAN diagnostics tools are used, then basic testing can be conducted, but user annotation capability is not available
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables users to self-annotate test results with contextual information about their network environment and observed issues. This self-service annotation capability allows users to capture important contextual details without requiring external assistance, preserving valuable information for later analysis while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for testing a Local Area Network (LAN) coupled to a satellite network through a Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) is disclosed. The method includes: providing a LAN diagnostics tool disposed on the CPE for executing a plurality of tests; receiving, at the LAN diagnostics tool, a test request comprising an execution environment indicator; selecting a test agent based on the execution environment indicator; sending in response to the test request, from the LAN diagnostics tool, the selected test agent; and testing the LAN with communications between the LAN diagnostics tool and the selected test agent being executed on a device connected to the LAN.