Automated Mesh Traceroute Protocol for Path Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Determining the path that a packet would take within a mesh network is complex and often requires manual, tedious processes, prone to errors, especially in mesh-related protocols where different paths exist for the same addresses learned from a switch.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a mesh traceroute protocol that automates the path tracing process by using a mesh traceroute packet with specific fields and flags, allowing users to quickly determine the path given a destination MAC address and VLAN ID, and appending hop entries at each switch along the path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual path tracing methods are used in mesh networks, then path information can be obtained, but the process is complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mesh traceroute packet as an intermediary tool that automates path tracing. This packet contains specific fields (destination MAC address, VLAN ID, hop count, etc.) and is processed by mesh switches to automatically determine packet paths, eliminating manual complexity while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The mesh traceroute protocol enables self-service path tracing where the network infrastructure itself (mesh switches and traceroute packets) performs the path determination automatically. The switches process the traceroute packets and generate path information without requiring external manual intervention, reducing both complexity and potential for human error
2Productivity
If automated mesh traceroute protocol is implemented, then path tracing becomes efficient and accurate, but additional protocol overhead is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mesh traceroute packet is segmented into specific functional fields (destination MAC address field, VLAN ID field, hop count field, etc.), each serving a distinct purpose in the automated tracing process. This segmentation allows the protocol to be systematic and efficient while managing complexity through structured organization
Solution Approach 2:
The mesh traceroute packet serves multiple functions simultaneously: it traces packet paths, counts hops, identifies VLANs, and determines destination addresses. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate manual processes into a single automated protocol, improving productivity despite the added protocol structure
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment disclosed relates to a method of automated path tracing from an original mesh switch through a switching mesh to a specified destination. A mesh traceroute packet to the specified destination is built. The mesh traceroute packet is transmitted via an exit port associated with the specified destination and the returned packet is received. Another embodiment disclosed relates to a method of responding to receipt of a mesh traceroute packet during an automated path tracing. The mesh traceroute packet is received at a switch. A hop entry is appended to the mesh traceroute packet by the switch.