Network Device Configuration Standardization via Homogeneity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Heterogeneous computer devices connected to a common network face challenges such as security vulnerabilities and operational inefficiencies due to varying configurations, leading to difficulties in managing software and ensuring consistent communication and bandwidth usage.
Innovation Solution
A server computer device with a network interface and an identification and usage processor that standardizes data on installed programs and usage across devices, correlating this information to determine common program functions and configure devices uniformly, ensuring consistent software installation and usage across the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different operating system patches and software configurations are applied to different computer devices, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but security weaknesses arise and communication difficulties occur between devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies homogeneity by standardizing software configurations across heterogeneous computer devices. The system identifies and deploys common software packages and configurations that ensure consistent security patches and communication protocols across all devices, while maintaining the ability to handle device-specific requirements through the standardized interface.
2Productivity
If a large number of computer devices with different configurations are connected to the network, then organizational functionality is enhanced, but managing software and controlling remote access becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system that acts as a mediator between the diverse computer devices and the network management infrastructure. This intermediary standardizes communication protocols and software interfaces, enabling centralized management of remote access and software deployment without requiring direct complex interactions with each heterogeneous device.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements universality by creating a common software platform that can operate across multiple types of computer devices. The standardized configuration allows the same management tools and software packages to function universally across desktops, mobile devices, tablets, and server computers, reducing management complexity while supporting diverse organizational needs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If each computer device has unique configuration, then specific device requirements are met, but bandwidth competition increases and message exchanges are unnecessarily duplicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies homogeneity by implementing standardized communication protocols and message formats across all computer devices. This standardization eliminates redundant message exchanges and optimizes bandwidth usage by ensuring that communication patterns are efficient and non-duplicative, while still allowing devices to maintain their specific functional configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
According to examples described herein computer devices coupled to a network can be automatically configured. Systems information is gathered from a plurality of computer devices by way of one or more of an agent and a scout. This information is standardized and stored in one or more databases. A program function is determined from the standardized information. This program function is used to identify two different sets of computer programs installed on a set of networked computer devices. This configuration is then replaced by a configuration where only a single common computer program is used to perform the program function.