Network Device Auto-Provisioning via Topology Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network device auto-provisioning methods are not applicable when a network device is replaced, as they rely on specific MAC addresses or serial numbers, preventing plug and play functionality in such scenarios.
Innovation Solution
Acquiring and matching network topology information, including interface and IP address details of an uplink device, to enable TFTP or FTP connections for network devices, allowing them to retrieve necessary operating system and configuration files for provisioning, even when the device is replaced.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network device auto-provisioning is implemented based on MAC address or serial number, then the provisioning process can be automated for new devices, but the system cannot handle device replacement scenarios where the MAC address or serial number changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces network topology information (including interface and IP address of uplink device) as an intermediary identifier to bridge the gap between device replacement and auto-provisioning. Instead of relying directly on MAC address or serial number, the system uses the uplink device's network topology information as a mediator to identify and provision the replaced device, enabling seamless replacement without re-planning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the provisioning identifier from device-specific parameters (MAC address, serial number) to network topology parameters (interface, uplink device IP address). This parameter change allows the system to maintain consistent identification across device replacements, as the network topology remains unchanged even when the physical device is replaced
2Ease of operation
If network device auto-provisioning relies on MAC address or serial number, then the provisioning mechanism is simple, but plug and play functionality cannot be achieved when devices are replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service provisioning by allowing the network management device to automatically acquire network topology information from the replaced device and initiate the provisioning process without manual intervention. The system automatically detects the device replacement, retrieves the necessary topology information, and triggers the appropriate provisioning actions, achieving plug and play functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing the correspondence between network topology information and provisioning resources. Before device replacement occurs, the system is configured to automatically retrieve and apply the correct operating system files and configuration information based on the uplink device's topology data, eliminating the need for manual re-configuration after replacement
Data Source
AI summary
A method, device, and system for controlling network device auto-provisioning is provided. The method includes: acquiring network topology information that is in a live network and of a network device, where the network topology information includes an interface and an IP address of an uplink device directly connected to the network device. The method also includes detecting whether the network topology information in the live network matches preset network topology information; and if the network topology information in the live network matches the preset network topology information, sending, by a network management device to the network device, information about enabling the File Transfer Protocol (FTP) or Trivial FTP (TFTP), and an identifier of an operating system file and/or an identifier of a configuration file, so that the network device acquires the operating system file and/or the configuration file.