Automated Virtual Network Configuration via LLDP Discovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
In data centers with multiple virtual machines running on host servers, adding a new host to the cluster often requires manual intervention from both network and virtual infrastructure administrators due to the need for physical network configuration information, leading to delays in virtual network configuration.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that uses the Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) to determine the physical switches and VLANs connected to new network interface cards (NICs), and assigns them to virtual switches based on a predefined network configuration document, enabling automatic configuration of virtual networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual configuration process is used to add new hosts to the virtual network, then network configuration accuracy is improved, but configuration time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-configuration by automatically discovering physical network topology and VLAN information through LLDP protocol, eliminating the need for manual configuration input while maintaining accuracy through automated information collection from network infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses LLDP protocol to continuously gather feedback from physical switches about port connections and VLAN configurations, automatically updating the virtual network configuration based on this feedback loop to ensure accuracy without manual intervention
2Manufacturing precision
If manual intervention from multiple administrators is required, then configuration accuracy is improved, but process complexity and coordination overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the roles of network administrator and virtual infrastructure administrator into a single automated process, combining physical network discovery and virtual network configuration into one unified workflow that eliminates inter-departmental coordination
Solution Approach 2:
The virtualization management software acts as an intermediary that automatically collects physical network information through LLDP and translates it into virtual network configuration, mediating between physical and virtual network layers without requiring human administrators
3Productivity
If automated configuration is implemented, then configuration speed is improved, but information accuracy may deteriorate without manual verification
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors physical network topology and VLAN configurations through LLDP feedback from switches, automatically detecting changes and updating virtual network configurations to maintain accuracy without manual verification
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual verification processes with automated electronic discovery protocols (LLDP), using software-based network topology discovery to substitute human verification while maintaining or improving accuracy through consistent automated data collection
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are disclosed herein for configuring a virtual network. One embodiment provides a computer-implemented method that includes receiving a request to add network interface cards (NICs) of a new virtual machine (VM) host to the virtual network, and determining, using a protocol by which network devices advertise information, ports of at least one physical switch to which the NICs are connected. The method further includes determining, based on a predefined network configuration document, virtual local area networks (VLANs) which are enabled on the ports of the at least one physical switch to which the NICs are connected. In addition, the method includes assigning the NICs to ports of at least one virtual switch in the virtual network based on the VLANs as determined.