Network Device Configuration Error Detection via MIB Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network infrastructure devices lack effective methods to detect misconfigurations between devices using discovery protocols, leading to potential operational issues and errors in network configurations.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using the Management Information Base (MIB) data from network infrastructure devices to compare configuration information from local and neighboring devices via discovery protocols like LLDP, applying evaluation logic to identify and report configuration errors, and utilizing a higher-level management entity for comprehensive error detection and correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If discovery protocols are used to exchange configuration information between network devices, then network devices can notify neighbors about their presence and configuration, but there is no mechanism to detect misconfigurations or errors in the exchanged information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where configuration information exchanged via discovery protocols is automatically evaluated and validated. The system provides feedback about configuration consistency by comparing received PDU data with local configuration data, identifying mismatches and notifying administrators of potential misconfigurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary evaluation component that mediates between the raw discovery protocol exchanges and the configuration management system. This intermediary layer processes the exchanged information, performs consistency checks, and generates evaluation results without disrupting the original discovery protocol operation.
2Measurement precision
If manual configuration checking is performed to ensure accuracy, then configuration errors can be detected, but network administrators must manually compare configurations which is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the network devices to perform self-verification of their configurations by automatically comparing exchanged PDU information with local configuration data. This self-service approach eliminates the need for manual configuration checking by network administrators, providing both high detection accuracy and time efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs configuration evaluation continuously in the background as discovery protocol exchanges occur, rather than waiting for manual intervention. This preliminary and ongoing evaluation ensures configuration accuracy is maintained without requiring dedicated manual verification time.
3Ease of operation
If configuration data is stored in MIB on each device for easy access, then configuration information is readily available, but there is no mechanism to evaluate or detect inconsistencies between local and remote device configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the MIB database serve multiple functions: not only storing configuration data for easy access but also providing the data for automatic evaluation and consistency checking. The same MIB structure that enables easy configuration access also serves as the basis for detecting configuration inconsistencies through comparison with received PDU information.
Data Source
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AI summary
The method involves providing information of network infrastructure devices (1 to 4) by an appropriate configuration at the appropriate network interface. The information, is provided by the memory unit (11) of a network infrastructure device, is used by the neighbor-network infrastructure devices for the recognition of incorrect configurations between the network infrastructure devices by comparing the data stored in the memory unit. The information provided in the memory unit is determined by the Discovery protocol.