Overlay Data Model Transactions With Selective CLI Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network device configuration updates result in unnecessary computing resource usage and inconsistencies due to the generation and processing of CLI commands for directly mapped configuration objects, and the storage of configuration information in multiple locations and formats.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism is implemented to segregate configuration updates into two sets: one requiring CLI command generation and processing, and another that can be directly applied to native configuration objects, using a configuration agent and a scratch copy of the system database to maintain consistency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If CLI commands are generated and processed for all configuration updates, then configuration consistency is maintained, but computing resource usage increases unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments configuration updates into two distinct categories: those that directly map to native configuration objects and those that require CLI command processing. By dividing the configuration update workflow, the system applies CLI command generation only where necessary, eliminating redundant processing for directly-mapped objects while maintaining consistency through selective application of processing mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If configuration information is stored in multiple locations and formats, then configuration flexibility is improved, but data consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the configuration module receives notifications from the system database confirming successful storage of configuration objects. This feedback loop enables the configuration module to update its vendor-neutral data model consistently, ensuring that multiple configuration stores remain synchronized through real-time status information and confirmation protocols.
3Device complexity
If all configuration updates are processed through the same mechanism, then processing simplicity is maintained, but processing efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic processing paths based on the characteristics of each configuration update. The system evaluates whether a configuration object directly maps to a native object and dynamically selects the appropriate processing mechanism: direct application for mapped objects or CLI command generation for unmapped objects. This dynamic adaptation optimizes processing efficiency while maintaining manageable complexity through conditional logic.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for reducing processing resources required for configuration updates in a network device by segregating configuration updates into a first set of direct updates and a second set of updates that require CLI commands. The first set of updates are to vendor-neutral configuration objects that are isomorphically mapped to corresponding native configuration objects. The second set of updates are to vendor-neutral configuration objects that are not isomorphically mapped to corresponding native configuration objects. The first set of updates is forwarded to a configuration agent, which applies them to the configuration stored in the system database. CLI commands that are generated for the second set of updates are forwarded to the configuration agent, which parses them and applies corresponding updates to the system database. The system database confirms successful updates to a configuration module which then updates its own vendor-neutral configuration information.