LLDP-Based Switch Update Sequencing to Prevent Boot Chain Interruptions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Software updates on network devices, particularly switches, often fail due to incorrect update order or boot process, especially when multiple devices are updated simultaneously, leading to boot command chain interruptions.
Innovation Solution
The method determines the sequence of network devices using LLDP (Link Layer Discovery Protocol) and sends boot commands in the correct order, rebooting devices from farthest to closest to the update distribution station, ensuring that each switch is not booted before those behind it.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple switches are supplied with updates simultaneously, then update efficiency is improved, but boot command chain interruption occurs and update reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the simultaneous update process into a sequential one by determining the physical order of switches using LLDP and processing updates switch by switch in that determined order. This segmentation prevents boot command chain interruptions while maintaining overall update efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by using LLDP to determine the physical order of switches before distributing updates. This preliminary ordering ensures that when updates are sent, they follow the correct sequence (furthest switch first, then moving closer to the distribution point), preventing any switch from booting before its dependencies are ready.
2Reliability
If boot delays are used to resolve update ordering problems, then update reliability is improved, but update time increases and productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses LLDP feedback to automatically determine the physical order of switches and uses this feedback information to sequence updates accordingly. This eliminates the need for arbitrary boot delays while ensuring correct update ordering, thus reducing unnecessary time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from time-based parameters (boot delays) to position-based parameters (physical order determined by LLDP). By ordering updates based on the determined physical sequence rather than using fixed time delays, the system achieves both reliability and efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is proposed for determining the best sequence of software updates and/or boot commands to switches, said sequence being used to allow the prevention of collisions when distributing the software updates and/or the boot commands and to allow the software update process and/or the boot command process to be optimized over time. For this purpose, a network is used in which an update station, multiple network participants, and multiple switches can communicate with one another. It is proposed to collect information relating to the switches in the network using LLDP, and the removal of the switches from the update station is determined using the collected Information. The sequence of updates and/or boot commands to the switches can then be ascertained by means of the removal process.