Network Path Identification via Probing Packets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the path of message flow in computer networks are inefficient due to the complexity of modern routing devices and the need for vast, outdated data, which can lead to difficulties in identifying failure points and optimizing network performance.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that queries network devices about their handling of hypothetical packets, using VLAN-specific polling and network topology to identify the path from a source device to a destination device without requiring knowledge of routing protocols or maintaining extensive routing data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex routing models with vast data are used to predict packet paths, then path prediction capability is improved, but data freshness deteriorates and system overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using simplified probing packets instead of complex routing models. The probing packets act as mediators that interact with network devices to elicit path information without requiring vast routing data or complex algorithms. This resolves the contradiction by achieving accurate path prediction through direct interaction rather than data-intensive modeling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses probing packets that copy the essential characteristics of actual data packets without requiring full routing table data. By creating simplified copies (probing packets) that trigger the same routing decisions as real traffic, the system achieves path prediction accuracy without maintaining vast amounts of routing information, thus resolving the data freshness issue.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex routing algorithms are implemented at each device, then routing strategy capability is improved, but device complexity and overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by allowing network devices to autonomously respond to probing packets using their existing routing logic. Each device independently determines the path based on its own routing tables and policies without requiring complex external algorithms. This maintains routing strategy capability while avoiding the overhead of implementing and coordinating complex algorithms across multiple devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of path determination from complex algorithmic computation to simple probing packet transmission and response collection. By transforming the problem from calculating routes using multiple parameters (routing tables, policies, traffic conditions) to observing actual packet traversal, the system achieves adaptability without increasing device complexity.
3Productivity
If end-to-end path identification is implemented in real-time, then monitoring efficiency is improved, but network overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses partial action by sending only necessary probing packets along the specific path of interest rather than monitoring all network traffic. Instead of excessive comprehensive monitoring that would generate high overhead, the system sends minimal probing packets only where needed to identify the end-to-end path, thus achieving real-time efficiency with reduced network overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic probing at intervals rather than continuous monitoring. By sending probing packets periodically instead of continuously analyzing all traffic, the system achieves real-time path identification efficiency while significantly reducing network overhead and energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring approaches.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a computer implemented method of identifying in a network of interconnected devices a path through the network from a source device to a final destination device, the path comprising a connected sequence of devices, the method comprising at a monitor computer connected to the network: identifying a first device connected to the source device; transmitting a first query to the first device, the query including a destination identifier and requesting identification of an egress port for messages addressed to the destination identified by the destination identifier when the query is received at the first device; receiving a result message identifying the egress port and identifying the second device connected to the first device based on a network topology accessible by the monitor computer; and addressing a next query to the second device and receiving a next result message identifying an egress port from the second device; and identifying from the network topology a third device connected to the second device, wherein the path is identified to include the first, second and third devices.