Network Command Validation via Auto-Learning Knowledge Base
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Solution Overview
Problem
Configuring network devices in large packet-switched networks is cumbersome and error-prone due to the complexity of syntax and semantics across various devices and vendors, requiring improved approaches for validating configuration commands.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for syntax and semantic validation of network device commands using a knowledge base that interprets user input in real-time, identifying errors and providing feedback without connecting to the device, and an auto-learning mechanism to build a common command knowledge base across different devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual configuration commands are issued for each network device, then device configuration can be performed, but the process becomes cumbersome and error-prone in large networks
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-validation of configuration commands by automatically checking syntax and semantics against a knowledge base, eliminating the need for manual error checking and reducing configuration time while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The validation system checks configuration commands before they are executed on network devices, identifying and correcting errors in advance, which prevents rework and reduces overall configuration time
2Reliability
If comprehensive syntax and semantics knowledge is maintained for all devices, then configuration accuracy improves, but the complexity of managing this knowledge increases
Solution Approach 1:
The knowledge base is segmented into modular syntax rules and semantic constraints that can be independently managed and validated, making it easier to maintain comprehensive knowledge without overwhelming complexity
Solution Approach 2:
A validation engine acts as an intermediary between the knowledge base and configuration commands, automatically handling the complexity of knowledge management while providing simple validation services to users
3Reliability
If real-time validation feedback is provided during command entry, then configuration errors are reduced, but the complexity of the validation system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time validation feedback during command entry by comparing user input against syntax rules and semantic constraints, immediately identifying errors and guiding users toward correct configuration without requiring complex post-validation processing
Data Source
AI summary
Syntax and semantic validation of network commands use a command database that has been learned automatically for validation of the syntax and the semantics of command line interface commands by interpreting the network commands as the network commands are entered to identify syntax errors or semantic errors before applying the same commands on a device of interest.