Layer-2 Subnet Extension Across Independent Domains
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing device management systems face challenges in efficiently extending layer-2 subnets across independently managed sites, requiring manual validation of non-overlapping IP addresses and matching subnet prefixes, leading to a tedious and error-prone process.
Innovation Solution
A system that initiates and manages layer-2 subnet extension from a single site by issuing remote instructions for configuring remote resources, establishing a data connection, and facilitating a layer-2 broadcast domain, with automatic validation and monitoring across sites.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual validation of non-overlapping IP addresses and matching subnet prefixes is performed, then configuration accuracy is improved, but operation complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic validation of IP address non-overlapping and subnet prefix matching without requiring manual intervention. The device management system autonomously checks configuration parameters, validates subnet compatibility, and ensures accurate layer-2 subnet extension across independently-managed sites, eliminating the need for manual validation while maintaining high configuration accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual validation operations with automated electronic validation mechanisms. The device management system uses automated scripts and validation algorithms to check IP address conflicts and subnet prefix matching, substituting the mechanical manual process with an efficient automated system that reduces both time and complexity
2Reliability
If manual configuration of layer-2 subnet extension is performed across independently-managed sites, then configuration control is improved, but time consumption and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device management system performs preliminary validation of configuration parameters before executing the layer-2 subnet extension. It pre-checks IP address non-overlapping, subnet prefix matching, and other critical parameters, ensuring configuration control is established beforehand. This preliminary action prevents errors and reduces the time needed for manual verification during the actual extension process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual configuration operations with automated device management system operations. The system automatically generates configuration commands, validates parameters, and executes the layer-2 subnet extension across independently-managed sites, dramatically reducing time consumption while maintaining reliable configuration control through automated validation mechanisms
3Productivity
If automated validation and monitoring are implemented, then operation efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device management system performs multiple functions including configuration validation, subnet extension execution, and monitoring within a single integrated platform. This multi-functionality improves operation efficiency by consolidating tasks while managing system complexity through a unified architecture that handles validation and monitoring as inherent parts of the extension process
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system for facilitating layer-2 subnet extension. During operation, the system can query, from a first administrative domain, a remote database of a second administrative domain for configuration information associated with one or more remote network segments. The system can obtain, from a user interface of the first administrative domain, an instruction for performing layer-2 subnet extension from a first network segment under the first administrative domain to a second network segment of the one or more remote network segments for providing a common layer-2 broadcast domain. The system can then send a remote instruction executable in the second administrative domain for configuring a remote endpoint for the extension. The system can also configure a local endpoint in the first network segment for the extension. Subsequently, the system can establish a data connection between the local and remote endpoints for the extension.