LLDP Packet Differentiation for Network Topology Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
In centralized-control-type networks, the inability to distinguish Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) packets from different networks affects topology establishment, as these packets are not distinguishable from user traffic LLDP packets, leading to incorrect topology recognition by the controller.
Innovation Solution
A communication system and method that sets control information in switches to differentiate LLDP packets from different networks by adding unique information elements such as an Identification flag, Controller ID, and DPID, allowing switches to transmit specific LLDP packets to a topology management apparatus for accurate network topology management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If LLDP packets are used for topology detection in centralized-control-type networks, then topology recognition is enabled, but LLDP packets from different networks cannot be distinguished leading to incorrect topology recognition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by adding specific information elements (such as a flag indicating whether the packet is for topology detection, Controller ID, and DPID) to LLDP packets. This modifies the packet structure to include network identification parameters, enabling the controller to distinguish between topology detection packets and user traffic packets from different networks, thereby resolving the contradiction between enabling topology recognition and preventing misidentification of packets from different networks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If switches forward all LLDP packets to the data plane, then user traffic LLDP packets can be transmitted, but topology detection LLDP packets cannot be distinguished from user traffic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by setting different processing priorities for different types of LLDP packets based on their specific characteristics. Topology detection LLDP packets are assigned higher priority and are forwarded to the control plane, while user traffic LLDP packets are handled according to normal data plane processing. This local differentiation in packet handling ensures that topology detection packets are reliably distinguished and processed, while maintaining the switches' ability to handle user traffic packets flexibly.
3Measurement precision
If control information is added to distinguish LLDP packets, then packet differentiation is enabled, but control information structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the control information into distinct, standardized information elements that are added to the LLDP packet structure. Each element (flag, Controller ID, DPID) serves a specific differentiation purpose. This segmented approach to control information allows for systematic packet differentiation while maintaining a structured and manageable control information framework, reducing the overall complexity compared to a monolithic control information structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication system includes: a control apparatus configured to set control information, which causes each control target switch to distinguish a link layer discovery protocol packet of a first network from a link layer discovery protocol packet of a second network different from the first network and to perform corresponding predetermined processing, in each control target switch; a group of switches each of which is configured to transmit a link layer discovery protocol packet of the first network to a predetermined topology management apparatus in accordance with control information set by the control apparatus; and a topology management apparatus configured to manage a network topology configured by the group of switches on the basis of information included in a link layer discovery protocol packet of the first network received from each of the switches.