Multi-Instance Loop Switching for Near-Zero Topology Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) and Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) technologies take significant time to reconstruct network topology, leading to data loss during network changes, and existing solutions do not efficiently manage network loops.
Innovation Solution
A multi-instance single loop topology adjustment method and network switch design that configures back-up ports in different network switches for different instances, allowing traffic dispersion and rapid recovery from link abnormalities through control frames, enabling dynamic path adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional STP technology is used to avoid network loops, then network stability is improved, but topology reconstruction time increases to 30 seconds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single loop network into multiple independent network instances (first network instance, second network instance, etc.), each with its own back-up switch. This segmentation allows independent topology adjustments in each instance without affecting others, enabling parallel recovery operations that reduce overall reconstruction time while maintaining network stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-configures back-up switches and blocking states before abnormalities occur. When a link abnormality is detected, the system already has prepared backup paths and control frames ready to execute immediate topology adjustment, eliminating the need for lengthy discovery and negotiation phases in traditional STP.
2Loss of time
If RSTP technology is used to accelerate topology reconstruction, then reconstruction time is reduced to 2-3 seconds, but data loss still occurs during network changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-establishes backup switches and blocking states in advance. When a link abnormality occurs, the system can immediately switch to pre-prepared backup paths without waiting for topology reconstruction, ensuring continuous data transmission and eliminating data loss during the transition period.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-healing mechanisms where network switches automatically detect abnormalities and trigger topology adjustments without external intervention. The control frames automatically propagate blocking state changes and restore normal traffic flow, minimizing disruption and preventing data loss during the recovery process.
3Device complexity
If single loop network topology is used, then network simplicity is improved, but traffic dispersion capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the single loop network into multiple network instances, each with its own back-up switch configured in different blocking states. This segmentation enables traffic from different instances to follow different paths through the same physical loop, achieving traffic dispersion without increasing physical network complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different blocking states to different ports of back-up switches in different network instances. Each instance has its own local configuration where specific ports are blocked while others remain active, allowing traffic to be dispersed along different paths within the same physical topology.
4Adaptability or versatility
If back-up ports are configured in different network switches for different instances, then traffic dispersion is improved, but control frame management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control frame management functions into a unified mechanism where all network switches, including back-up switches, participate in the same control frame propagation process. The control frames carry instance identifiers and blocking state information, allowing centralized coordination without requiring separate management systems for each instance.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-instance single loop topology adjustment method and network switch are provided. The single loop networks of each instance have distinct back-up ports, defaulted to a blocking state. Thus, when abnormalities occur in a link of the single loop network, the topology of each instance is adjusted by changing the back-up ports of each instance to a forwarding state.