Layer 2 Domain Double VLAN Identifier Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing Ethernet network architecture, based on the OSI model's Layer 2, is limited by the 12-bit VLAN identifier, which restricts the number of Virtual LANs (VLANs) to 4,096, making it inadequate for networks serving more than 4,096 customers or requiring additional broadcast domains.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of Layer 2 domains, which allow for the definition of broadcast domains beyond the limitations of the 12-bit VLAN identifier, using double VLAN identifiers for identification over a wire and configuring devices to maintain Layer 2 separation through Layer 2 domain trunking and routing instances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If 12-bit VLAN identifier is used in Ethernet network, then compatibility with existing Ethernet standard is maintained, but the number of supported VLANs is limited to 4,096
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a flat 12-bit VLAN identifier space to a hierarchical structure with outer and inner VLAN identifiers. This dimensional change allows the system to represent vastly more broadcast domains by combining multiple identifier levels, effectively expanding the address space without changing the fundamental Ethernet frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nested VLAN identifiers where an inner VLAN identifier is encapsulated within an outer VLAN identifier framework. This nesting approach allows multiple levels of VLAN hierarchy to coexist, enabling the system to support more than 4,096 VLANs while maintaining backward compatibility with standard Ethernet processing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If Layer 2 domains are implemented with double VLAN identifiers, then the number of broadcast domains is increased beyond 4,096, but the complexity of device configuration and processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protocol as an intermediary layer that automatically handles the complexity of double VLAN identifier processing. This protocol acts as a mediator between the physical Ethernet layer and the logical VLAN identification, automatically assigning and resolving VLAN identifiers without requiring manual configuration complexity at each device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where devices automatically discover and advertise their VLAN domain information to network elements. This feedback loop eliminates the need for complex manual configuration by allowing the system to self-configure based on detected VLAN domains, reducing operational complexity while supporting expanded broadcast domain capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A network device may be configured to define a Layer 2 domain, wherein the Layer 2 domain defines a data link layer broadcast domain and assign an access interface to the Layer 2 domain. The network device may be further configured to assign a double Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) identifier to the access interface in the Layer 2 domain, wherein the double VLAN identifier includes an inner VLAN identifier and an outer VLAN identifier, receive a data unit via the access interface, wherein the data unit includes the double VLAN identifier, and associate the data unit with the defined Layer 2 domain, based on the data unit being received via the access interface and based on the data unit including the assigned double VLAN identifier.