Automatic Network Device Role Assignment in Ethernet Ring Topologies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional ring protection switching methods in Ethernet ring networks require complex manual configurations, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors that can compromise network reliability.
Innovation Solution
A network configuration method and device that automatically detect and configure roles among network devices using probe packets to determine load differences and assign roles, thereby automating the configuration process and reducing manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual configuration is used for ring protection switching, then configuration flexibility is maintained, but configuration efficiency decreases and manual errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The network device automatically detects loop links by sending probe packets and determining its own role (master or standby) based on detected load differences, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining proper ring protection switching functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of loop links and automatic role assignment before any fault occurs, so that when a fault happens, the standby link is already configured and ready for immediate switching, improving overall efficiency
2Reliability
If manual configuration is used for ring protection switching, then configuration control is maintained, but reliability decreases due to manual errors
Solution Approach 1:
The network device autonomously detects loop links and determines its role without manual intervention, reducing human error while maintaining reliable ring protection switching through automated detection and configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses probe packets to detect loop links and measures load differences as feedback to automatically determine the master-slave role assignment, ensuring reliable configuration based on actual network conditions rather than manual input
3Productivity
If automatic role assignment is implemented, then configuration efficiency improves, but detection accuracy requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses probe packets as an intermediary to detect loop links and measure load differences, translating complex network conditions into measurable parameters that automatically determine role assignment without requiring direct manual measurement
Data Source
AI summary
A network configuration method with automatic and periodic reviews of master and standby links can be executed by a first network device which is located in a first loop link, the first loop link also containing second and third network devices. The method comprises detecting a load of the first loop link, receiving second load information from the second network device, and third load information from the third network device. Determining whether the first network device is suitable as an owner node in the first loop link according to the first, second, and third load information, and configuring the first network device as the owner node in the first loop link upon the condition that the first network device is deemed suitable as such.