SAN Switch BGP Synchronization for Automatic Configuration Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Network Control Optimization Technology Requirements and Test Specifications do not provide a method for synchronizing information between switches in a Storage Area Network (SAN), which is necessary for devices to detect changes in the network and adjust configurations accordingly, leading to potential packet loss and reduced throughput.
Innovation Solution
The method involves extending the Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) to synchronize target data such as IP service zone configuration, device discovery information, and default IP service zone support between switches using BGP routes, enabling automatic synchronization and intelligent configuration adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If no information synchronization method is implemented between switches, then the SAN system remains simple and unchanged, but network changes cannot be detected timely leading to packet loss and reduced throughput
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies BGP protocol, originally designed for internet routing, to SAN network information synchronization. This multi-functional use of an existing protocol avoids creating a new specialized protocol, thereby improving reliability through proven technology while minimizing additional system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Switches automatically synchronize network configuration information and detect changes through the BGP protocol mechanism without requiring external management systems or manual intervention. The protocol's inherent route advertisement and withdrawal mechanisms enable self-service information synchronization, improving reliability while keeping the system relatively simple
2Productivity
If manual configuration synchronization is used between switches, then system complexity remains low, but configuration changes cannot be updated automatically causing network inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The BGP protocol implements automatic feedback mechanisms where switches continuously monitor network configuration changes and automatically advertise updated routes or withdraw stale routes to peer switches. This feedback loop ensures configuration information is synchronized promptly without manual intervention, dramatically improving productivity while the automation level is managed through standardized protocol behavior
Solution Approach 2:
Switches pre-establish BGP peer relationships and configure route advertisement parameters before network operations begin. This preliminary setup enables automatic real-time synchronization of configuration changes without requiring subsequent manual adjustments, achieving high productivity through initial automation configuration
3Adaptability or versatility
If a proprietary synchronization protocol is developed for SAN switches, then synchronization can be optimized for SAN specific needs, but interoperability between different manufacturers' equipment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By using BGP, a universally recognized internet routing protocol, the patent enables SAN switches from different manufacturers to interoperate through a common language. The protocol's adaptability to SAN needs is achieved through selective application of BGP features rather than proprietary extensions, maintaining ease of manufacture and interoperability while providing sufficient adaptability for SAN information synchronization requirements
4Reliability
If extensive modifications are made to the SAN to enable synchronization, then information can be synchronized effectively, but the complexity and cost of system changes increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The BGP protocol acts as an intermediary mechanism that enables information synchronization without requiring fundamental changes to SAN switch architecture or existing management protocols. By introducing BGP as a separate communication layer between switches, the patent achieves reliable synchronization while minimizing modifications to the core SAN system, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
The present application provides a method and apparatus for synchronizing information between switches. The method includes: acquiring to-be-synchronized target data; sending BGP routes carrying the target data through BGP sessions established between the switch with one or more designated switches, so that the target data is synchronized between the switch and target switches that need to synchronize with the switch.