Network Restoration Order via Dependency Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network management platforms are inadequate in managing low-level or high-level restoration processes, particularly in identifying software dependencies between machines and restoring individual machine configurations, especially in cases of failures or disasters, lacking integrated tools for comprehensive network or datacenter restoration.
Innovation Solution
A network management platform that generates a dependency map to identify an ordered list of nodes for restoration, extracts reverse kickstart files to reinstall software and resources, and uses a network reconstruction engine to perform ordered restoration of the network, preserving proper function and security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing network management platforms are used for basic machine management, then connection and identification of targets is achieved, but software dependency identification and ordered restoration capability is missing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges dependency mapping, kickstart file extraction, and ordered restoration operations into a single integrated platform. The system combines previously separate functions (machine management, dependency tracking, configuration restoration) into one unified solution that handles comprehensive network recovery operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform is designed to perform multiple functions: identifying software dependencies across the network, extracting kickstart files from various sources, generating restoration orders based on dependency graphs, and executing coordinated restoration operations. This multi-functional approach addresses the versatility requirement while managing complexity through automation.
2Productivity
If manual restoration processes are used for individual machines, then specific configuration restoration is possible, but comprehensive network restoration with dependency awareness is not achievable
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by continuously mapping software dependencies across the network and pre-extracting kickstart files before actual restoration is needed. When a restoration event occurs, the pre-built dependency graph and extracted files enable immediate automated restoration without manual intervention, significantly improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform automatically generates restoration orders based on the dependency graph without requiring manual intervention to determine restoration sequences. The system self-manages the complex coordination of restoring multiple machines in the correct order, eliminating the need for operators to manually manage restoration complexity.
3Extent of automation
If kickstart files are stored locally on machines, then configuration restoration is possible, but centralized management and coordinated network restoration is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a centralized management platform as an intermediary between individual machine kickstart files and the restoration process. This intermediary extracts kickstart files from various sources, stores them in a centralized location, and coordinates their use during restoration operations, preventing data loss while enabling automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary extraction and storage of kickstart files from multiple sources before restoration is needed. These pre-extracted files are stored in a centralized repository where they can be reliably accessed during automated restoration operations, ensuring configuration data is preserved and available when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments relate to systems and methods for automatically generating a system restoration order for network recovery. A set of managed machines, such as personal computers or servers, can be managed by a network management platform communicating with the machines via a secure channel. The network management platform can access a dependency map indicating a required order for restoration of machines or nodes on a network. The network management platform likewise access a reverse kickstart file for each machine to be automatically restored in order to ensure proper functioning of the network, and extract a current configuration of that machine for purposes of restoring the overall network.