Remote Network Device Simulation for Test Topology Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Configuring multi-component computer networks for efficient data exchange while preventing unauthorized access and minimizing network failures is challenging due to the complexity and potential for misconfiguration, which can lead to packet loss, latency, and security vulnerabilities, especially when testing requires physical proximity and extensive resources.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for designing and configuring remote network devices using a graphical user interface to simulate network topologies, allowing remote connection of network devices through the Internet, capturing and delivering data packets, and configuring physical devices to match virtual designs, thereby enabling remote testing and reducing the need for physical proximity and extensive equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical wires are used to interconnect test network components, then network connectivity is achieved, but physical proximity and extensive lab space are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of physical network devices and connections. Virtual network devices simulate the behavior of physical devices, and virtual connections replicate data packet transmission over the network. This allows comprehensive network testing without requiring actual physical infrastructure, resolving the contradiction between achieving reliable network connectivity and the need for extensive physical lab space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical physical wiring system with a software-based virtual connection system. Instead of using actual cables and physical network devices, the system uses software applications that capture and simulate data packets, substituting the mechanical infrastructure with a virtualized approach that eliminates the need for physical proximity and extensive lab space.
2Adaptability or versatility
If physical network devices are deployed for testing, then comprehensive network testing is enabled, but device complexity and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses virtual network devices that are software implementations of physical devices. These virtual devices replicate the functionality and behavior of physical network equipment without requiring actual hardware. This reduces device complexity and resource requirements while maintaining comprehensive network testing capability, as the virtual devices can be instantiated, configured, and managed through software.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a universal virtualization platform that can simulate multiple types of network devices and scenarios through a single system. The virtual network devices can be configured to represent different physical devices, network topologies, and test scenarios, providing versatile testing capability without requiring separate specialized equipment for each test type.
3Ease of operation
If remote configuration is implemented, then operational convenience is improved, but configuration accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that allow the system to verify configuration accuracy remotely. The virtual network devices can monitor and report on their configuration state, and the system can validate that configurations are applied correctly. This feedback loop ensures that remote configuration operations maintain high accuracy by continuously verifying the intended configuration matches the actual device state.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses virtual copies of network devices that precisely replicate the behavior and configuration capabilities of physical devices. Because the virtual devices are software implementations, they can be configured with exact precision through software control, and their configuration state can be verified and validated remotely without the uncertainties associated with physical device configuration. This maintains configuration accuracy while enabling remote operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method and system for designing a test network in an integrated application, and configuring remote network devices through a network design application to test a network design. One embodiment of the present claimed subject matter is provided as a system for automatically configuring remote network devices to simulate a network connection. The system includes a plurality of computing devices which are physically coupled to one or more network devices, wherein the network devices are automatically configured to comprise a test network corresponding to a remote test network topology design.