Multi-device Link Aggregation Designated Forwarder Method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-network device link aggregation (LAG) implementations are limited to two devices or have one passive link, lacking a scalable solution for multiple network devices, which restricts network resilience and efficiency in data center and enterprise networks.
Innovation Solution
A method where network devices determine if they have a local link for a LAG, identifying themselves as designated forwarders if present, or the closest device with a local link if not, and dynamically re-evaluate this designation upon changes, ensuring packets are forwarded or dropped accordingly to prevent looping and enhance scalability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current multi-network device LAG implementations are used, then link aggregation can be achieved between two devices, but scalability to multiple network devices is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the LAG functionality by introducing designated forwarder roles and local link identifiers, dividing the complex multi-device aggregation problem into manageable components where each device independently determines its role based on local link presence
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by having devices pre-determine their designated forwarder status and store local link identifiers before packet transmission occurs, enabling scalable multi-device LAG without complex real-time synchronization
2Reliability
If protocol failover is implemented in seconds, then network resiliency is provided, but packet loops may occur during failover transitions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by pre-configuring designated forwarder roles and local link identifiers before failover events occur, preventing packet loops from forming during the transition period when protocol failover is occurring
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces local link identifiers as intermediaries that enable devices to identify and forward packets correctly during failover transitions, preventing loops without requiring immediate protocol-level coordination
3Reliability
If passive links are used in multi-network device LAG, then some redundancy is provided, but active links cannot be utilized simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamics by allowing devices to transition between different LAG roles (designated forwarder vs. non-forwarder) based on real-time local link status, enabling flexible utilization of multiple active links across different devices simultaneously
Data Source
AI summary
A network device determines whether the network device has a local link for a link aggregation group (LAG), and identifies, when the network device has a local link for the LAG, the network device as a designated forwarder for the LAG. The network device also identifies, when the network device does not have a local link for the LAG, a closest network device to the network device, with a local link for the LAG, as the designated forwarder for the LAG.