Multi-Layer Topology View for Network Path Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network management systems limit users' understanding of network paths, requiring manual association of service, tunnel, and LSP connection relationships, leading to inefficient operations and fault localization.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that present multiple topology layers showing connection relationships between network elements, simplifying user queries by displaying VPN service, tunnel, and LSP path connections in a single interface, reducing the need for manual association and enhancing fault localization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If only service connection relationship is viewed in topology view, then service connection can be displayed, but routing information (LSP connection relationship) cannot be viewed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the topology view into multiple independent layers: service connection layer and LSP connection layer. Each layer displays specific connection relationships, allowing users to view routing information without complicating the overall structure. The segmentation principle enables selective display of different connection types while maintaining system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension by stacking multiple topology layers above the traditional horizontal topology view. This dimensional change allows service connection relationships and LSP connection relationships to be displayed simultaneously in different vertical levels, resolving the information loss without increasing horizontal complexity.
2Loss of information
If only LSP connection relationship is viewed in topology view, then routing path can be displayed, but service connection relationship cannot be viewed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the topology view into distinct service connection layer and LSP connection layer, allowing both service connection relationships and routing information to be displayed simultaneously. This segmentation enables users to access different connection types through separate but integrated views.
Solution Approach 2:
By adding a vertical layer dimension, the patent enables simultaneous display of service connection relationships (upper layer) and LSP connection relationships (lower layer). This dimensional expansion allows complete network path information to be viewed without increasing operational complexity.
3Productivity
If manual query operations are used to view network paths, then detailed information can be obtained, but user skill requirement increases and working efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the system to automatically associate and display service connection relationships with LSP connection relationships without requiring manual user queries. The multi-layer topology view self-presents complete network path information, eliminating the need for users to perform complex manual association operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-associates service connection relationships with LSP connection relationships in the system architecture. When users access the topology view, this pre-established association is automatically displayed, eliminating the need for users to perform manual association operations and reducing skill requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method and an apparatus for presenting a network path. The method includes: querying, according to a first input, VPN service data corresponding to virtual private network VPN service information selected by the first input; presenting a first topology view according to the VPN service data; and presenting a second topology view according to a second input for the first topology view, where the second topology view includes a plurality of different topology layers presenting connection relationships between the network elements. By using the foregoing solutions, a complex activity of a user's manual query is simplified, and a skill requirement imposed on the user is lowered. In this way, the user does not need to memorize association relationships of services. This facilitates fault locating by the user, thereby improving the working efficiency of the user.