Router Network Virtualization Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of creating a network at a client site that connects multiple electronic devices to a wide area network (WAN) is challenging due to varying communication protocols and the need for technical expertise in managing routers and IP addresses.
Innovation Solution
A method and system where a router at a client site connects to a WAN, sends its serial number to a server, downloads a local area network (LAN) configuration, and provisions multiple electronic devices according to this configuration, simplifying the network setup and management process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional router configuration methods are used, then network connectivity is established, but the complexity of setup and maintenance increases due to manual IP address assignment and protocol configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The router automatically configures itself by receiving a serial number from the user, querying a database for the corresponding network configuration, and autonomously assigning IP addresses and protocols to connected devices without manual intervention. This eliminates the need for users to manually configure network settings while maintaining proper network connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
Network configurations are pre-stored in a database associated with router serial numbers before deployment. The required network settings, IP address ranges, and protocol configurations are prepared in advance, allowing the router to automatically retrieve and apply the correct configuration without requiring on-site technical expertise during setup.
2Ease of operation
If manual network configuration is performed, then network connectivity is established, but the need for technical expertise and training increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates the need for technical expertise by having the router automatically query its serial number in a database, retrieve the pre-configured network parameters, and autonomously complete the setup process. This transforms a technically complex task into a simple user action of providing a serial number.
Solution Approach 2:
A database serves as an intermediary between the user and the complex network configuration system. The database stores pre-configured network settings and translates the simple serial number input into comprehensive network configuration actions, shielding users from technical complexity while maintaining proper connectivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electronic devices with varying protocols are connected, then network connectivity is achieved, but the difficulty of creating and maintaining the network increases
Solution Approach 1:
The database stores pre-configured network parameters including IP address ranges, subnet masks, and protocol settings that are optimized for different device types and manufacturers before deployment. The router automatically retrieves the appropriate configuration based on the network type, eliminating the need for manual protocol configuration while supporting multiple device protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically adjusts network parameters such as IP addresses, subnet masks, and gateway settings based on the detected or selected network type. This dynamic parameter adjustment allows the router to adapt to different electronic devices and protocols without requiring manual configuration, maintaining both versatility and simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A router with network virtualization and configuration may be configured for a client site including a plurality of electronic devices. A configuration may be downloaded by the router, which then performs network configuration steps automatically including by identifying the plurality of devices at the client site and provisioning them according the LAN configuration. A user interface (UI) for configuring a network may include a router administrator dashboard for creating a detailed network configuration by assigning a plurality of ports of the router to the plurality of electronic devices in the selected network configuration, and sending the detailed network configuration to the router for use by the router in creating a network with the plurality of electronic devices at the client site.