Automated MPLS VPN Provisioning System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current provisioning tools for MPLS/VPN services require operators to have in-depth technical knowledge, leading to complex and error-prone processes, especially when dealing with virtual routing and forwarding (VRF) assignments, route targets, and network topology changes, which are difficult to troubleshoot and costly.
Innovation Solution
An automated provisioning method and system that translates high-level network topology descriptions into technical configuration commands, reducing the need for detailed technical knowledge by using a set of rules to assign route targets and VRFs, allowing for efficient and flexible VPN service provisioning without manual link-by-link configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual provisioning methods are used, then operators can provision MPLS/VPN services, but operators require in-depth technical knowledge of MPLS BGP/VPN technology and technical details such as VRF assignments and route targets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an automated provisioning tool that acts as an intermediary between the operator and the complex MPLS/VPN configuration process. The tool automatically translates high-level service requirements into detailed technical configurations including VRF assignments, route targets, and routing redistribution settings, eliminating the need for operators to possess deep technical knowledge of these parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The provisioning system performs self-service by automatically generating and applying technical configurations without human intervention. The system autonomously handles VRF creation, route target assignment, and routing policy configuration based on service requirements, freeing operators from manual technical provisioning tasks.
2Ease of operation
If automated provisioning tools are used, then technical knowledge requirements are reduced, but the tools require operators to provision each CE-PE access individually
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual provisioning operations into a single bulk provisioning process. The automated tool can simultaneously provision multiple CE-PE accesses across different VPNs and topologies in one operation, rather than requiring sequential individual configuration of each access point.
Solution Approach 2:
The provisioning system is designed with universal capabilities to handle diverse MPLS/VPN scenarios through a single unified interface. It can provision various VPN topologies (full mesh, hub-and-spoke, partial mesh), multiple VRFs, and different routing protocols simultaneously, making the tool adaptable to multiple provisioning needs without requiring separate processes.
3Manufacturing precision
If individual CE-PE provisioning is performed, then specific technical configurations can be applied, but the process becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The automated provisioning tool serves as an intermediary that manages the complexity of individual CE-PE configurations. It systematically handles each configuration step including VRF creation, route target assignment, and routing policy application, ensuring accuracy while shielding operators from the inherent complexity of these detailed technical configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The provisioning system incorporates feedback mechanisms that automatically verify configuration accuracy and detect errors during the provisioning process. The tool provides real-time validation of configuration parameters and can rollback changes if errors are detected, ensuring high configuration accuracy while managing process complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional provisioning tools are used, then MPLS/VPN services can be provisioned, but flexibility to accommodate new VPN topology and service changes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The provisioning system is designed with dynamic capabilities that allow it to adapt to changing VPN topologies and service requirements in real-time. The automated tool can dynamically create new VRFs, modify existing route targets, and reconfigure routing policies without requiring manual intervention or system reconfiguration, enabling rapid accommodation of topology changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system possesses universal provisioning capabilities that support multiple VPN topologies and service types through a single platform. It can handle full mesh, hub-and-spoke, and partial mesh topologies, as well as various routing protocols and VRF configurations, providing flexibility for service changes while maintaining efficient automated deployment.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed method and system provides a new service provision interface that allows operator use without requiring many of the specific technical network details, such as VRF, RT, SOO, route redistribution, etc. Further, the translation from a customer's requirements (including both VPN topology membership requirement and L2, L3 requirement from customer) into technical network configuration commands are handled using an automated method that is transparent to the operator.In a particular illustrative embodiment of this patent disclosure, a high level table with reduced technical detail is generated by an operator and an automated provisioning system, without operator visibility or required operator interaction, creates intermediate data including network specific technical information in an automated process to generate a deployable network topology including VRF and RT assignments for use in network provisioning.