Network Switch Dynamic Topology Configuration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional data storage systems face issues when a network switch is initially configured for one scenario but used in another, leading to either network performance degradation due to Ethernet loops or loss of logical isolation between ports.

Innovation Solution

A technique involving a network switch that is configured to provide an initial set of communications paths in a benign topology, allowing it to operate safely in either scenario, and then reconfigured to support specific modes such as crosslink or daisy-chaining based on the data storage system's requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the network switch is configured with a crosslink pathway for service processor communications, then service processor communication flexibility is improved, but Ethernet loops may be created that degrade network performance

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveservice processor communication flexibilityVSAvoidnetwork performance

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The network switch configuration is made dynamic rather than static. The switch can be reconfigured between different operating modes (crosslink mode and daisy-chain mode) depending on the deployment scenario. This allows the system to adapt the topology to match the actual physical configuration, preventing Ethernet loops while maintaining service processor communication flexibility when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the operational parameters of the network switch by providing different configuration modes. In crosslink mode, the switch enables pathways that enhance service processor communication flexibility. In daisy-chain mode, the switch modifies its pathways to prevent loops. The ability to change these parameters based on the deployment scenario resolves the contradiction between flexibility and reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the network switch is configured with daisy-chain pathways for enclosure connectivity, then system scalability is improved, but logical isolation between ports is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem scalabilityVSAvoidloss of logical isolation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The network switch provides dynamic configuration between daisy-chain mode and crosslink mode. In daisy-chain mode, the switch enables pathways that connect multiple enclosures for scalability. In crosslink mode, the switch reconfigures to maintain logical isolation. This dynamic switching allows the system to achieve scalability when needed while preserving security isolation when required.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the operational parameters of the network switch by providing different configuration modes. In daisy-chain mode, the switch modifies its pathways to enable enclosure connectivity for scalability. In crosslink mode, the switch changes parameters to restore logical isolation. The ability to change these parameters based on the deployment scenario resolves the contradiction between scalability and security isolation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If a single network switch configuration is used for both crosslink and daisy-chain scenarios, then device complexity is reduced, but configuration errors may occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork switch configurationVSAvoidconfiguration correctness

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The network switch is designed with multi-functionality to support both crosslink and daisy-chain operating modes within a single device. Rather than requiring different hardware configurations or multiple switches, a single universal switch can adapt to different deployment scenarios through reconfiguration. This reduces device complexity while maintaining configuration correctness through mode-specific settings.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8031722B1Techniques for controlling a network switch of a data storage system

Publication Date: 2011.10.04 EMC IP HLDG CO LLC

AI summary

A technique controls a network switch having a set of ports. The technique involves configuring the network switch to provide an initial set of communications paths between the ports. The initial set of communications paths defines an initial communications path topology within the network switch. The technique further involves receiving a configuration command which identifies a particular operating mode of the data storage system after configuring the network switch to provide the initial set of communications paths within the network switch. The technique further involves reconfiguring the network switch to provide a new set of communications paths between the ports in response to the configuration command. The new set of communications paths (i) defines a new communications path topology within the network switch, the new communications path topology being different than the initial communications path topology, and (ii) supports the particular operating mode of the data storage system.