Parallel Connectivity Testing for Server Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual testing of connectivity among numerous components in wireless communication networks is time-consuming and inefficient, requiring sequential testing of thousands of connections, which is not economical or efficient.
Innovation Solution
A method for creating a CSV-based input file to automate connectivity testing among source and destination components in parallel, using a user interface to input ranges of IP addresses, ports, and optional SSH private keys, allowing for simultaneous testing and reducing the need for manual initiation of each test.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual testing of connectivity among numerous components is performed sequentially, then each test can be carefully executed with proper parameter entry, but the total testing time becomes extremely long and the process becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the large-scale connectivity testing task into multiple independent parallel test sessions. Each session tests a subset of source-destination component pairs, allowing the overall testing to be distributed across multiple concurrent processes rather than executing all 7500 connections sequentially. This segmentation enables the system to maintain testing accuracy while dramatically reducing total testing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces parallelism as a new dimension for executing connectivity tests. Instead of processing tests in a single sequential dimension, the system executes multiple test sessions simultaneously across multiple dimensions (parallel processes), transforming the testing approach from linear to multi-dimensional execution. This allows numerous connectivity tests to be performed concurrently rather than one at a time.
2Reliability
If manual parameter entry and test initiation is performed for each connection, then proper testing procedures can be followed, but the operational complexity and human resources required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automation where the testing system automatically generates test configurations, initiates test sessions, and processes results without requiring manual parameter entry for each connection. The system reads component lists from input files, automatically creates the necessary test parameters, and executes all connectivity tests through automated processes. This maintains testing reliability through consistent automated procedures while dramatically improving operational ease by eliminating repetitive manual tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring test sessions and preparing test parameters before actual connectivity testing begins. The system reads and validates component information from input files, pre-processes test configurations, and prepares all necessary parameters in advance. This preliminary preparation ensures testing reliability is maintained while simplifying operation during the actual test execution phase.
3Reliability
If the number of test sessions is increased to cover all component connections, then complete connectivity coverage is achieved, but the computational resources and testing duration increase proportionally
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complete connectivity testing requirement into multiple smaller test sessions that can be executed in parallel. Each session covers a specific subset of source-destination component pairs, and the results are aggregated to provide complete connectivity coverage. This segmentation allows the system to achieve comprehensive testing (maintaining reliability) while distributing the computational load across multiple parallel processes (improving productivity).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the testing approach by adding parallel execution as a new dimension. Instead of increasing the number of sequential test sessions, the system executes multiple sessions simultaneously in parallel, effectively using time parallelism to improve productivity. This dimensional change allows complete connectivity coverage to be achieved without proportionally increasing total testing duration, as multiple coverage checks occur concurrently rather than sequentially.
Data Source
AI summary
A technique of testing connectivity between a plurality of source components, e.g., source servers, and a plurality of destination components, e.g., destination servers, in a network is discussed herein. A request to test connectivity between a plurality of source components and a plurality of destination components is received, the request being directed to testing the connectivity between each source component and each destination component. Connectivity between each source component and each destination component is tested, with multiple tests being conducted substantially simultaneously. Based at least in part on the testing, a report is generated related to connectivity between the plurality of source components and the plurality of destination components. The ranges of IP addresses for the source components and ranges of IP addresses of the destination components are provided using a Comma-Separated Values (CSV)-based input.