Network Element Manager Logical Neighbor Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network element managers face challenges in distinguishing between logical and physical connections, particularly when tunnels are configured to relay specific layer-two control protocols, and in verifying the correct tunnel configuration, leading to difficulties in managing network topologies.
Innovation Solution
The method involves retrieving neighbor information from network elements using different layer-two control protocols, prioritizing protocols like LLDP, OAM, and LACP, and determining the connection type by analyzing the protocols' behavior and configuration, allowing the element manager to accurately identify logical and physical neighbors and verify tunnel configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the element manager manually provides connection information, then the network topology can be accurately represented, but the operational complexity and time required for network management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling network elements to automatically discover and report their own connection information to the element manager. Each network element actively probes its neighbors and autonomously determines physical and logical connections, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining accurate topology representation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where network elements receive connection status information from their neighbors and feed this back to the element manager. The element manager aggregates this feedback from multiple network elements to construct an accurate view of the network topology, resolving the contradiction between accuracy and operational complexity.
2Productivity
If the element manager pings a range of addresses to discover elements, then automatic element discovery is achieved, but the ability to obtain accurate connection and topology information is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having network elements proactively send connection status information to the element manager before the manager attempts to discover them. Network elements perform preliminary probing of their neighbors and prepare connection data in advance, so when the element manager queries the network, complete topology information is already available without requiring systematic address scanning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces neighbor information as an intermediary that bridges the gap between basic address discovery and complete topology mapping. Network elements use neighbor information from layer-two control packets as an intermediate step to infer physical and logical connections, enabling both efficient discovery and accurate topology representation without direct manager-initiated scanning.
3Adaptability or versatility
If tunnels relay specific layer-two control protocols, then protocol-specific routing is achieved, but the element manager's ability to verify tunnel configuration and distinguish connection types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the verification process by treating different layer-two control protocols separately. The element manager receives and processes neighbor information from multiple protocol types (LLDP, OAM, LACP) as distinct data streams, analyzing each protocol's behavior independently to determine tunnel status. This segmentation allows protocol-specific routing flexibility while maintaining reliable verification through systematic analysis of each protocol's characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
Element managers and processes receive, from a selected network element, first neighbor information describing a first neighboring network element directly connected to the selected network element and second neighbor information describing a different second neighboring network element directly connected to the selected network element. Based at least in part on the first neighbor information and the second neighbor information, the element managers and processes determine that the first neighboring network element is a logical neighbor that is connected by a tunnel to the selected network element and is coupled to the selected network element via one or more intermediate packet switches.