Router Multicast Integration for Home Network Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
In home network systems, multiple segments created by different gateway devices cannot communicate directly with each other, requiring users to have knowledge of network configuration and multiple steps to set up communication, which is difficult and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
A method where a first router determines if it belongs to the top segment and generates a multicast packet to integrate multiple segments into a single segment, allowing direct communication between devices across the network by changing WAN ports to LAN ports in additional routers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple gateway devices are installed in a home network, then network service coverage is improved, but network segmentation increases and communication between segments becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a multicast packet as an intermediary mechanism that enables communication between segmented networks. The top gateway device sends multicast packets that propagate through the network hierarchy, allowing devices in different segments to discover and communicate with each other without requiring direct configuration changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains the beneficial segmentation of the network (allowing multiple gateway devices for extended coverage) while introducing a control mechanism that manages segment boundaries. The top gateway device identifies itself as the segment leader and coordinates inter-segment communication, preserving segmentation benefits while enabling necessary connectivity.
2Reliability
If a user directly changes network configuration to enable segment communication, then communication between segments is achieved, but user operation complexity increases and errors become more likely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by automatically enabling inter-segment communication through the multicast packet mechanism. When a top gateway device detects it should be the segment leader, it automatically generates and transmits multicast packets without requiring user intervention. This eliminates the need for users to manually configure complex network settings while ensuring reliable segment communication.
3Reliability
If multiple steps are required to change home network settings, then precise control is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates and user errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the top gateway device to automatically generate multicast packets when needed. The system prepares the communication mechanism in advance, so when inter-segment communication is required, the process is already initiated and progresses automatically without requiring users to navigate through multiple configuration steps.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for network setting. The network setting method includes determining, by a first router, whether the first router belongs to a top segment of a plurality of segments; generating, by the first router, a multicast packet for integrating the plurality of segments into a single segment, if the first router belongs to the top segment; and transmitting, by the first router, the multicast packet to at least one additional router included in the plurality of segments.