Network Migration via MAC Learning and Protocol Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Migrating a computer network from legacy technology to new technology, such as from L2 VLAN-based to SPBm VSN, often disrupts network services by dropping voice or data connections due to the need to remove VLANs from NNI ports before assigning service identifiers.
Innovation Solution
A method involving four phases: Migrate Start, Cutover, Complete, and Abort, where traffic is initially forwarded using L2 VLAN MAC learning, then switched to ISIS protocol after learning MAC addresses, allowing for seamless migration while retaining NNI ports and using VLAN encapsulation, and enabling rollback to legacy services if disruptions occur.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If VLAN is removed from NNI ports before assigning service identifier, then network migration from L2 VLAN to L2 VSN is enabled, but voice or data connections are dropped and network services are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary MAC address learning and stores it in a migration table before the actual migration cutover. This preliminary action ensures that when the migration occurs, all necessary MAC address mappings are already prepared, preventing service disruptions during the transition from L2 VLAN to L2 VSN network
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a migration table as an intermediary data structure that temporarily holds MAC address mappings during the migration process. This intermediary table allows the system to maintain forwarding capabilities while transitioning between protocols, acting as a bridge between the old VLAN-based system and the new VSN-based system without causing service interruptions
2Reliability
If MAC addresses are learned and stored in second table before cutover, then seamless protocol switching is achieved, but migration process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The migration process is segmented into distinct phases: MAC address learning phase, table building phase, and cutover phase. By dividing the migration into manageable segments with clear boundaries, the system reduces overall complexity while ensuring service continuity. Each segment can be independently managed and verified before proceeding to the next phase
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems and computer readable media for network migration as described. The method can include receiving, at a processor, an indication to initiate a migrate start. The method can also include initiating, at the processor, a migrate start including forwarding traffic in a first protocol based on a first table while building a second table to forward traffic in a second protocol different from the first protocol. The method can further include performing a migrate cutover when it is determined that one or more MAC addresses for an active session have been learned and stored in the table. The method can also include completing a migration when an indication is received to complete the migration. The method can also include aborting the migration based on a received indication to abort the migration.