Inferring Network Connectivity Without External Configuration Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

In network performance analysis, it is challenging to evaluate the current state or predict future behavior of networks when configuration information for external networks is lacking, especially when network segments are managed by third parties or when physical descriptions of interconnected networks are incomplete.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for inferring connectivity between unconnected network segments by examining configuration data, rendering inferred configuration data into a network model, and providing an abstract representation of external networks using communication protocols like IP, OSPF, EIGRP, and BGP, with user interaction through a graphical user interface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If configuration information for external networks is obtained, then network topology description accuracy is improved, but information security and access control are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork topology description accuracyVSAvoidinformation security risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary system that acts as a mediator between the analysis system and external network configuration data. This intermediary infers configuration data through automated activities and user interactions without requiring direct access to sensitive network segments, thereby maintaining security while enabling analysis.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates abstract representations and inferred configurations of external networks rather than requiring access to actual configuration data. These copies or abstractions enable topology analysis without exposing sensitive information from managed network segments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If configuration data is collected from multiple sources, then network analysis comprehensiveness is improved, but system complexity is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork analysis comprehensivenessVSAvoiddata collection system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal configuration data collection system that can handle multiple data sources (configuration files, network devices, user inputs) through a single integrated interface. The system performs multiple functions including automated inference, user interaction management, and data validation within one unified framework.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs a nested structure where configuration data collection is embedded within inference activities, which are themselves embedded within the overall network analysis framework. This nested approach organizes complexity hierarchically, with each layer building upon the previous one.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Productivity

If automated inference processes are implemented, then analysis productivity is improved, but inference accuracy is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfiguration data collection speedVSAvoidinferred configuration accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where inferred configuration data is validated through user interactions and cross-checked against available configuration information. The system allows users to review, correct, and provide feedback on inferred data, which then refines subsequent inference activities to improve accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs automated inference for routine configuration data while leaving complex or ambiguous cases for manual user input. This partial automation approach handles the majority of data collection automatically while reserving human judgment for edge cases that require higher precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS9237073B2Inferring connectivity among network segments in the absence of configuration information

Publication Date: 2016.01.12 RIVERBED TECH LLC

AI summary

The present system includes a system, method and device for inferring connectivity between unconnected network segments. In operation, unconnected network segments are identified. Configuration data related to the unconnected network segments may be examined to facilitate inferring configuration data for an external network connected between the unconnected network segments. The inferred configuration data may be rendered, such as exported or visualized. The inferred configuration data may be related to a communication protocol and/or may be related to network bandwidth. The examined configuration data may be captured directly from one or more of the unconnected network segments and/or may be retrieved from a configuration data file, such as a network configuration model.