Virtualized Mesh Network Patch Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mesh networks face challenges in efficiently assessing and minimizing performance degradation and data loss risk when applying software and firmware patches to interconnected devices, particularly due to varying hardware and software configurations and differing security risks across devices.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the creation of a virtualized copy of a mesh network to measure and compare unpatched and patched performance metrics, allowing for the optimization of patch configurations by simulating patch applications in a virtual environment to determine an optimal patch rollout plan that balances security with performance impact and risk scoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software patches are applied to all devices in the mesh network, then security is enhanced, but processing speed and performance may be degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the mesh network into multiple virtualized copies or test groups, allowing patches to be applied and tested on subsets of devices rather than all devices simultaneously. This enables selective patching based on performance thresholds, where only devices that meet specific performance criteria after patching are fully integrated back into the network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies patches partially to the network by first testing on virtualized copies and only deploying to physical devices that demonstrate acceptable performance metrics. This partial action approach prevents widespread performance degradation by limiting patch deployment to devices that can tolerate the performance impact.
2Speed
If software patches are tested on virtualized copies before deployment, then performance impact is minimized, but time and computational resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary testing of software patches on virtualized copies of mesh network devices before deploying patches to physical devices. This preliminary action includes creating virtualized test environments, applying patches to virtual devices, measuring performance metrics, and validating results before actual deployment, thereby preventing performance degradation in the production network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates virtualized copies (virtual machines or simulated devices) that replicate the behavior and characteristics of physical mesh network devices. These copies serve as test beds for patch validation, allowing performance measurement and risk assessment without affecting actual network operations. The virtualized copies enable safe experimentation and testing of patch configurations.
3Manufacturing precision
If performance metrics are measured and compared for each device, then optimal patch configuration is identified, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where performance metrics are measured before and after patch application on virtualized devices, compared against predefined thresholds, and used to determine whether patches should be deployed to corresponding physical devices. This feedback loop enables automated decision-making about patch deployment, optimizing the balance between security and performance while reducing manual intervention complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method includes: creating a virtualized copy of a mesh network including devices; measuring an unpatched performance metric value for the virtualized copy of each of the devices; applying a first software patch to the virtualized copy of each of the devices; measuring a patched first performance metric value for the virtualized copy of each of the devices; comparing, for each of the devices, the patched performance metric value to the unpatched performance metric value; and preventing the application of the first software patch to a first device of the devices as a result of the comparing.