Multi-chassis Interconnect Authentication Protocol
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network management systems lack effective neighbor discovery and link-level monitoring, leading to potential incorrect inter-chassis connections in multi-chassis systems, which can result in performance issues and require time-consuming manual verification by administrators.
Innovation Solution
A system where a master chassis with modules for information packet exchange and authentication establishes and maintains active connections between chassis, using system and port IDs to authenticate links and prevent unauthorized traffic, enabling automatic authentication and 'plug-n-play' functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spanning tree protocol is used for link management, then path redundancy is provided and loops are prevented, but neighbor discovery and link level monitoring are not available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing a discovery protocol that proactively sends discovery packets between chassis before formal link establishment. This allows neighbor discovery to occur in advance, identifying valid chassis neighbors and their connectivity status before spanning tree protocol is fully activated, thus resolving the limitation of lacking neighbor discovery capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through continuous monitoring of link status and exchange of status packets between chassis. The system monitors link health, detects connection changes, and provides feedback to the control plane, enabling dynamic adjustment of spanning tree parameters and ensuring loops are prevented while maintaining redundancy
2Reliability
If visual inspection is used for connection authentication, then connection verification is performed, but the process is time consuming and may create additional incorrect connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing automated authentication protocols where chassis automatically exchange verification packets and validate connections without human intervention. The system autonomously performs connection verification, authenticates neighbors, and detects incorrect connections, eliminating the time-consuming manual visual inspection process while maintaining reliable connection verification
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual inspection process with an electronic automated system. Instead of visual inspection by administrators, the system uses electronic discovery packets, authentication protocols, and automated monitoring mechanisms to verify connections, significantly reducing authentication time while improving accuracy
3Ease of manufacture
If manual connection installation is performed, then connections are established between chassis, but the risk of incorrect connections increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing pre-configuration validation and automated connection verification protocols. Before connections are fully activated, the system performs preliminary checks to ensure connection correctness, validates chassis compatibility, and verifies link integrity, thereby reducing the risk of incorrect connections while maintaining ease of installation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous feedback mechanisms that monitor connection status and provide real-time validation. The system detects incorrect connections through automated protocols, alerts administrators, and can automatically correct or isolate problematic connections, ensuring high connection correctness while maintaining simple installation procedures
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a system, apparatus and method for providing point-to-point inter-chassis connections within chassis systems and/or network nodes. Multi-chassis systems within a network employ a protocol wherein a peer discovery process is initiated and the discovered neighbors are authentically verified before establishing an active state between point-to-point inter-chassis links.