Layer 2 Layer 3 Network Mapping for Service Audits
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Large networks face challenges in performing service audits, security checks, and other operations due to information being scattered across different devices, with existing automated systems being too slow and unable to handle the volume of data effectively, especially for service providers with millions of subscribers, and failing to check for data integrity or consistency.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that collect and utilize Layer 2 and Layer 3 communication information, such as ARP and MAC tables, to generate communication maps, allowing for the collection and storage of data across networks, enabling faster and more accurate service provisioning, auditing, and security checks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated systems are used to generate network maps, then network mapping capability is provided, but the system speed is too slow for service providers with millions of subscribers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network mapping process by separating Layer 2 information (MAC addresses, switch ports) from Layer 3 information (IP addresses, routing). This segmentation allows parallel processing of different network layers, significantly improving mapping speed for large service provider networks with millions of subscribers while maintaining comprehensive network visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a dimensional approach by collecting and correlating information across multiple network layers (Layer 2 switching and Layer 3 routing) simultaneously. This multi-dimensional view enables faster network mapping by processing hierarchical network data in parallel dimensions rather than sequentially, addressing the speed limitation for large-scale networks.
2Loss of information
If Layer 2 and Layer 3 information are kept separate, then device functionality is maintained, but information availability for audits and security checks is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges Layer 2 information (MAC addresses, switch port data) and Layer 3 information (IP addresses, routing data) into a unified network map. This combination enables comprehensive service audits, security checks, and troubleshooting by making all network information available in one place, while the modular architecture manages the complexity through standardized data collection methods from multiple network devices.
3Reliability
If automated systems generate network maps, then network visualization is achieved, but data integrity and consistency are not verified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the automated system collects network information, generates network maps, and then uses those maps to verify data consistency across Layer 2 and Layer 3. The system cross-references MAC address to IP address mappings, validates routing information, and identifies inconsistencies, thereby ensuring data integrity while maintaining high automation. This feedback loop enables the automated system to self-verify its outputs without manual intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method can be used to collect communication information including Layer 2 and Layer 3 information during normal communications between devices or other elements within a network. In a particular embodiment, the information can be generated as address resolution protocol tables and media access control tables, which are used to keep track of which elements are connected to other elements and to map network addresses to media access control identifiers. The communication information can be used in performing an action, such as servicing the system, auditing the system, checking for security breaches or policy violations, or other suitable action.