Network Aggregation System With Hibernation State Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data center network aggregation systems are inefficient in terms of size, power consumption, and cost, and lack effective solutions for reducing spoofing attacks and ensuring network security.
Innovation Solution
The proposed system employs a network aggregation method with a segmented Ethernet Media Access Control (MAC) architecture, integrated microcontrollers for secure communication, and a fault-resilient unicast routing mechanism, enabling efficient packet switching and secure management processor communication within a tree-like or graph topology, reducing the need for additional routers and minimizing power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by stationary object
If traditional data center network aggregation systems are used, then network connectivity and data transmission are achieved, but system size, power consumption, and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple network functions (routing, switching, MAC control) into a single integrated network aggregation system, eliminating the need for separate routers and reducing overall system size and power consumption while maintaining full network connectivity capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The network aggregation system performs multiple functions simultaneously including packet routing, switching, MAC address management, and spoofing prevention, allowing a single system to replace traditional multi-component architectures and reduce power consumption
2Reliability
If redundant processing units and MAC controllers are assigned for fault tolerance, then system reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The management processor automatically detects connectivity faults and dynamically reassigns MAC addresses and routing paths without manual intervention, maintaining fault tolerance while simplifying system operation and reducing complexity compared to manually configured redundant systems
3Use of energy by stationary object
If address remapping is implemented for hibernation state, then power consumption during idle periods is reduced, but address management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The management processor automatically handles address remapping when main processors enter hibernation state, dynamically reassigning their MAC addresses to the management processor without manual configuration, thereby reducing idle power consumption while keeping address management transparent and simple
4Object-affected harmful factors
If segmented MAC architecture with integrated microcontrollers is used, then security against spoofing attacks is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments MAC address management into separate management processor functions, isolating security-critical address assignment from general processing, which enhances spoofing attack resistance while allowing standardized manufacturing of processing units
Data Source
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AI summary
A system is disclosed comprising one or more main processors (905) that go into a hibernation state when not active; and a management processor (906) that does not go into the hibernation state. The system further includes one or more ports having respective addresses. The port addresses are remapped to the management processor when the one or more main processors are in the hibernation state.