Network Device Discovery via Platform-Independent Port Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network device discovery processes in wide area networks are highly manual, leading to errors and inefficiencies, making them susceptible to mistakes and requiring a more automated and accurate method for identifying network devices.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for network device discovery that collects platform-independent information to determine the port on which a network device resides, using protocols like Cisco Discovery Protocol (CDP) and Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) to identify and enumerate network devices, and utilizes SNMP connections to gather information for managing and configuring these devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual entry or importation of data identifying network devices is used, then device discovery can be performed, but the process is highly susceptible to error and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The network device discovery system performs automatic device enumeration by monitoring network traffic and autonomously collecting platform-independent information from devices. The system self-updates its device inventory without requiring manual administrator intervention, thereby eliminating human error while maintaining continuous accuracy and improving discovery efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical data entry processes with automated electronic monitoring systems. The system uses network protocol analysis and automatic data collection mechanisms to discover devices, substituting human operators with computational processes that continuously scan network traffic and update device records automatically.
2Measurement precision
If manual device discovery processes are used, then device identification can be achieved, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The device discovery system operates continuously by constantly monitoring network traffic and updating device information in real-time. The system maintains continuous scanning and identification processes, ensuring that device discovery is an ongoing activity rather than a periodic manual task, thereby reducing time loss while maintaining high identification accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary network scanning and device enumeration automatically before administrative tasks are needed. By continuously collecting platform-independent information and maintaining an updated device inventory, the system prepares device data in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual discovery operations when administrators need device information.
3Adaptability or versatility
If platform-specific discovery methods are used, then device information can be collected, but the system cannot reliably identify devices across different manufacturers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal device discovery mechanism that collects platform-independent information from network devices regardless of manufacturer. The system uses standardized network protocols and generic identification methods that work across different device types and vendors, enabling consistent device identification and management across heterogeneous networks while maintaining high reliability through standardized data collection approaches.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method, and computer program product are provided. Initially, platform-independent information relating to a network device is collected. Thereafter, a port on which the network device resides is determined based on the platform-independent information.