Network Slice Topology Discovery via LLDP Extensions
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Solution Overview
Problem
In network slicing scenarios, existing Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) implementations fail to enable management devices to determine topology information of network slices due to the lack of slice information dissemination between network devices.
Innovation Solution
A method where network devices send LLDP packets containing slice information, allowing neighboring devices to advertise and report slice information to management devices, enabling timely acquisition and determination of network slice topology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If LLDP packets are used for network device discovery, then device topology information can be obtained, but slice information cannot be determined in network slicing environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds slice information within the existing LLDP packet structure by utilizing the Challenge field and TLV (Type-Length-Value) extensions. This nesting approach allows slice information to be carried inside standard LLDP packets without disrupting the original protocol framework, thereby preventing information loss while maintaining protocol compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an information conversion mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the physical network layer (LLDP) and the logical network slice layer. This intermediary translates and maps physical connection information to slice topology information, enabling the management device to determine slice topology through standard LLDP packets without requiring protocol modifications.
2Loss of information
If slice information is added to LLDP packets, then management devices can determine network slice topology, but protocol complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the Challenge field and TLV structures serve multiple functions: they carry both traditional LLDP device identification information and new slice topology information. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate protocol structures, thereby limiting the increase in protocol complexity while enabling comprehensive information transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes existing variable fields in the LLDP packet structure (such as the Challenge field and TLV parameters) to carry slice information. By changing the content parameters of existing fields rather than adding new structural elements, the patent minimizes protocol complexity increases while achieving the goal of transmitting slice topology information.
Data Source
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Figure 4A
AI summary
A network topology discovery method, device, and system are provided. The method includes: A second network device receives a first LLDP packet sent by a first network device. The first LLDP packet includes first slice information, and the first slice information is used to indicate a network slice to which a first port of the first network device belongs. The second network device sends the first slice information and second slice information to a management device. The second slice information is used to indicate a network slice to which a second port of the second network device belongs. In this way, slice information can be advertised between LLDP neighboring devices, and the LLDP neighboring devices can report the slice information to the management device, to help the management device obtain slice information of a managed device in a timely manner and determine topology information of the network slices.