Routing Control Function Validation Across Network POAs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing routing policies in network devices often misconfigure Routing Control Functions (RCF) due to the inapplicability of RCF functions at different points of application (POA), leading to potential errors and misconfigurations in production networks.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a mechanism to assess the applicability of RCF functions at their points of application (POA) by comparing the attributes of the RCF functions with the attributes specific to each POA, and generating error messages or blocking inapplicable functions to prevent misconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If RCF functions are applied at multiple points of application in routing policies, then the versatility and reusability of RCF functions improve, but the likelihood of misconfiguration increases due to attribute incompatibility at different POAs
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary validation by comparing RCF function attributes with POA attributes before allowing configuration. The network device proactively identifies attribute incompatibilities and generates error messages to prevent misconfiguration, rather than detecting errors after deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate feedback to users when an RCF function is incompatible with a POA by generating error messages that specify the mismatched attributes. This feedback mechanism guides users to correct configurations before they are applied to the routing policy.
2Reliability
If comprehensive validation of RCF function applicability is performed, then configuration accuracy improves, but the complexity of the configuration process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The network device performs self-validation by automatically comparing RCF function attributes with POA attributes using stored attribute information. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external validation tools or manual checking, simplifying the overall process despite the comprehensive nature of the validation.
Solution Approach 2:
Attribute information for both RCF functions and POAs is pre-stored in the network device, enabling rapid comparison and validation without requiring complex real-time analysis or external databases during the configuration process.
3Reliability
If error messages are generated for inapplicable RCF functions, then configuration accuracy improves, but the time required for policy configuration increases
Solution Approach 1:
Validation and error message generation occur during the configuration phase before the routing policy is activated. This preliminary action prevents errors from propagating into production, avoiding much more time-consuming troubleshooting and correction efforts later.
Solution Approach 2:
Immediate error messages provide users with specific information about attribute mismatches, enabling rapid correction. The feedback includes details about which attributes are incompatible, reducing the time users would otherwise spend debugging configuration issues.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to routing control functions (RCF functions) and in particular to determining applicability of an RCF function at the time the function is configured in a network device. The determination is made in terms of the attributes referenced in the function and the attributes associated with the point of application (POA) of the function. The attributes at a given POA can differ from one POA to another. An RCF function written for one POA may not be applicable at another POA.