Network Probing Agent Deployment to Minimize Redundant Path Tests
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network probing methodologies result in excessive resource consumption due to deploying agents on multiple nodes that probe the same paths, leading to inefficient use of resources and lack of consideration for local resource availability, especially in high-traffic environments.
Innovation Solution
A device determines the optimal deployment plan for probing agents based on network topology and node information, minimizing duplicate probes and resource usage by strategically selecting nodes for agent deployment, including mobile endpoints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If path probing agents are deployed to as many nodes as possible to maximize coverage, then network path monitoring coverage is improved, but resource consumption increases and redundant probing occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple probing agents into coordinated groups that share probing responsibilities and results. Instead of each agent independently probing all paths, agents are merged into collaborative units that divide the monitoring workload, eliminating redundant probes while maintaining comprehensive network coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The probing agents are designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing both path probing and collaborative coordination functions. A single agent can participate in multiple probing campaigns with different agents, sharing results and avoiding duplicate work, thus maximizing the utility of each deployed agent.
2Area of stationary object
If probing agents are deployed to maximize coverage, then network path monitoring capability is improved, but duplicate probing of same paths occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where probing agents share their results with other agents in the network. When an agent has already probed a particular path and recorded its status, this information is fed back to other agents, preventing them from performing redundant probes on the same paths and improving overall probing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Before deploying multiple probing agents, the system performs preliminary analysis of network topology and identifies optimal deployment locations that minimize redundancy. Agents are strategically positioned in advance to cover different network segments, preventing duplicate probing from the outset rather than relying on post-deployment coordination alone.
3Ease of manufacture
If probing agents are deployed without considering local resources, then deployment simplicity is improved, but agent execution reliability deteriorates in high-traffic nodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by tailoring the probing agent deployment strategy to the specific characteristics of each network node. High-traffic nodes are identified and either excluded from agent deployment or assigned reduced probing responsibilities, while lower-traffic nodes with sufficient resources are selected as optimal agent locations. This ensures agents are deployed where they can execute reliably without being overwhelmed by local traffic conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
In one implementation, a device obtains node information regarding a plurality of nodes in a computer network. The device identifies a topology of the computer network. The device determines an optimal agent deployment plan for probing agents in the computer network based on the node information and the topology of the computer network. The device causes probing agents to be deployed to a selected set of nodes from the plurality of nodes in accordance with the optimal agent deployment plan.