Network Assurance Platform for Layer 2 Interface and VLAN Validation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex computer networks face challenges in accurate and efficient error detection and configuration validation due to their intricate configurations, leading to difficulties in troubleshooting and ensuring proper network behavior.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a network assurance platform that models network configurations and performs consistency checks across various layers, converting and comparing logical, software, and hardware models to validate accuracy and generate events for errors, thereby facilitating quick root cause analysis and network health monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network configuration options are expanded to provide flexibility and control, then network adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network configuration into multiple hierarchical levels (global logical model, local logical model, software model, hardware model) and validates each layer separately. This segmentation allows comprehensive configuration options to be managed in organized chunks, reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining full adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary validation by comparing configured models against expected behavior before deployment. Configuration errors are detected and corrected in advance through automated consistency checks across logical and hardware models, preventing complex troubleshooting later.
2Adaptability or versatility
If network configuration becomes more complex to meet diverse needs, then network adaptability is improved, but error detection difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor network configuration consistency across multiple models. When discrepancies are detected between logical models and hardware implementations, the system generates alerts and facilitates corrective actions, making error detection straightforward despite configuration complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary validation layer that compares software models against hardware models and generates consistency reports. This intermediary mechanism simplifies error detection by providing a clear comparison interface between different configuration representations, regardless of overall system complexity.
3Measurement precision
If comprehensive network modeling is performed across multiple layers, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides comprehensive network modeling into distinct segmented models (global logical, local logical, software, hardware) that can be developed and validated independently. Each model focuses on specific aspects of network configuration, achieving high measurement precision without requiring simultaneous management of all complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a temporal dimension to validation by performing sequential comparisons across different model states (configuration vs. implementation). This multi-dimensional approach to validation achieves comprehensive precision while managing complexity through structured progression rather than simultaneous analysis.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are systems, methods, and computer-readable media for assuring tenant forwarding in a network environment. Network assurance can be determined in layer 1, layer 2 and layer 3 of the networked environment including, internal-internal (e.g., inter-fabric) forwarding and internal-external (e.g., outside the fabric) forwarding in the networked environment. The network assurance can be performed using logical configurations, software configurations and/or hardware configurations.