Network-Wide Logical Model for Policy Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex computer networks face challenges in accurate and efficient configuration and troubleshooting due to their intricate nature, leading to error-prone configuration processes and difficult error identification.
Innovation Solution
The system generates network-wide logical models by collecting and combining logical model segments from multiple controllers, ensuring a quorum is formed to ensure accurate representation and analysis of network configurations, policies, and behaviors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network operators use a wide array of configuration options to tailor the network to user needs, then network flexibility and control are improved, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex network configuration into multiple logical model segments, each representing a specific aspect or component of the network. This segmentation allows operators to manage and analyze individual segments independently, reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining overall network flexibility and adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If the network configuration process becomes highly complex to provide flexibility, then network control is improved, but error-proneness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism by generating a unified logical model from multiple segments and comparing it against the intended network behavior. This feedback loop identifies inconsistencies and errors in the configuration, allowing operators to correct issues before deployment, thereby improving configuration accuracy while maintaining control.
3Measurement precision
If network operators manually troubleshoot errors in highly complex networks, then detailed analysis is possible, but troubleshooting difficulty and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by automatically generating and analyzing the unified logical model before actual network deployment or during the troubleshooting phase. This preliminary analysis identifies potential errors and root causes beforehand, reducing the time required for manual troubleshooting while maintaining accurate error analysis through systematic model comparison.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for generating a network-wide logical model of a network. In some examples, a system obtains, from a plurality of controllers in a network, respective logical model segments associated with the network, each of the respective logical model segments including configurations at a respective one of the plurality of controllers for the network, the respective logical model segments being based on a schema defining manageable objects and object properties for the network. The system determines whether the plurality of controllers are in quorum and, when the plurality of controllers are in quorum, combines the respective logical model segments associated with the network to yield a network-wide logical model of the network, the network-wide logical model including configurations across the plurality of controllers for the network.