Dynamically Reprogrammable Network Lattices for Data Center Topology Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cloud service providers face challenges in testing and configuring complex network topologies within data centers due to the multiplicity of configurations, making it difficult to ensure connectivity and performance across various environments.
Innovation Solution
A dynamically reconfigurable network system that allows for automatic switching between different network topologies within a distributed computing system by reconfiguring existing networking infrastructure components without changing physical connections, enabling the creation of testing environments that mimic production environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cloud infrastructure component topologies are supported in a distributed computing system, then the system's adaptability and testing capability are improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of configuring connectivity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamically reconfigurable network that can automatically switch between different network topologies (e.g., spine-leaf, fat-tree, mesh) without manual reconfiguration. The system uses programmable network devices and automated configuration tools to dynamically adapt the physical network layout according to testing requirements, transforming a static complex system into a dynamic one that self-adjusts to different topologies.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs automated configuration tools and programmable network devices that can self-configure and self-manage the network topology changes. The automated tools handle the complexity of reconfiguring connectivity between computing devices, storage systems, and network components without requiring manual intervention, allowing the system to service itself during topology transitions.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual configuration of network topologies is performed, then configuration precision can be controlled, but the time required for setup and testing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-defines multiple network topologies and their corresponding configuration parameters in advance. The system stores template configurations for different topologies (spine-leaf, fat-tree, mesh, etc.) that can be instantly deployed without manual configuration. This preliminary preparation of configuration templates allows the system to rapidly switch between topologies by simply selecting and applying pre-validated configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical configuration processes with automated software-based configuration systems. Instead of physically reconfiguring network connections or manually programming device settings, the system uses software tools to automatically generate and apply configuration changes across the network, substituting human operations with automated computational processes that are both faster and equally precise.
3Adaptability or versatility
If physical network connections are reconfigured to test different topologies, then testing versatility is improved, but the risk of connectivity errors and system instability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies or logical representations of network topologies through software configuration rather than physically reconfiguring hardware connections. The system maintains the same physical infrastructure but uses programmable network devices to create different virtual topologies by modifying routing tables, virtual switches, and network protocols. This copying approach allows multiple topology tests without physically altering connections, ensuring stability while enabling versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are disclosed for implementing a dynamically reconfigurable network lattice within a distributed computing system. A computing device may determine a combined configuration that includes a union of at least a subset of cloud infrastructure component topologies. The computing device may then provide instructions for implementing a physical layer characterized by the combined configuration. The computing device may then determine a subset configuration corresponding to a cloud infrastructure component topology of the subset of cloud infrastructure component topologies. The computing device may then deploy the subset configuration to the physical layer of the distributed computing system.