Network Switch Embedded Graphical Management Interface
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional network switches require professional expertise and complex operations for management, making it difficult for administrators to efficiently manage and troubleshoot IP connected devices, especially with the limitations of Command-Line Interface (CLI) and Webpage User Interface (Web UI).
Innovation Solution
A network switch with an embedded graphical management system and device management module that provides a graphical management interface, allowing administrators to perform device management operations such as configuration settings and troubleshooting through a user-friendly interface, including topology, floor, and map modes, using a communication module and storage unit to access and execute management modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional CLI and Web UI interfaces are used for network switch management, then network configuration settings can be provided, but the operation complexity increases and requires professional personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (network management device) that mediates between the user and the network switch. This intermediary provides a simplified graphical interface that translates user-friendly operations into the appropriate commands for the network switch, thereby reducing operation complexity while maintaining ease of use. The intermediary acts as a bridge that handles the complexity internally while presenting a simple interface to users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy or representation of the network switch's functionality through a graphical user interface. Instead of requiring users to directly interact with the complex CLI or Web UI, the system creates a simplified visual model of network devices and their configurations, allowing users to manage network switches through intuitive graphical elements that replicate essential functions without the underlying complexity.
2Reliability
If conventional management interfaces are used, then basic network configuration is possible, but troubleshooting and performance management become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements comprehensive feedback mechanisms that automatically collect, analyze, and present network device status, performance metrics, and troubleshooting information through the graphical interface. The system continuously monitors network devices and provides real-time feedback to users, enabling easier troubleshooting and performance management without increasing user-facing complexity. Automated diagnostics and status reporting reduce the need for users to manually investigate complex issues.
3Productivity
If centralized management is attempted for large numbers of IP connected apparatuses, then resource sharing can be achieved, but management difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the management of network devices into organized groups or categories within the graphical interface. Instead of presenting a single overwhelming list of all IP connected apparatuses, the system divides devices into logical segments (e.g., by function, location, or type) that can be managed independently. This segmentation allows administrators to efficiently manage large numbers of devices by working with smaller, organized subsets while maintaining centralized control and resource sharing capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A network switch, a device management system, and a device management method thereof are provided. A network management system with a graphical management interface is embedded in the network switch, so that network administrators can use web browser for management. The graphical management interface provides a topology mode, a floor mode and a map mode for the network administrators to intuitively manage Internet Protocol (IP) connected apparatuses on a topological diagram, a floor plan or a map. Furthermore, in response to a control operation corresponding to the IP connected apparatus on the graphical management interface, the network switch performs a device function operation (e.g., an information collecting operation, a configuration setting operation, a node searching operation, a system login operation, etc.) corresponding to the control operation through a communication module thereof. Accordingly, an innovative and convenient device management system can be provided for the network administrators.