Segment-Based Loop Prevention Protocol for Network Segments
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current loop prevention protocols in networking are complex to configure and operate across entire networks, leading to increased configuration difficulty and convergence time, especially when dealing with network segments and failures.
Innovation Solution
A segment-based loop prevention protocol that selectively blocks ports within a network segment using segment protocol messages to prevent data loops, allowing for localized reaction to connectivity changes and simplified configuration, with the ability to unblock ports quickly in case of failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If loop prevention protocols operate over an entire network, then forwarding loops are prevented, but configuration difficulty and convergence time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the network into independent segments, each with its own loop prevention mechanism. Instead of implementing loop prevention across the entire network, each segment independently blocks ports to prevent loops within its boundaries. This segmentation reduces configuration complexity and isolates convergence issues to individual segments rather than affecting the whole network.
2Reliability
If loop prevention protocols operate over an entire network, then forwarding loops are prevented, but convergence time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the network into independent zones with local loop prevention, the patent limits the scope of convergence operations. When a topology change occurs, only the affected segment needs to recalculate its port states rather than the entire network, significantly reducing convergence time.
3Device complexity
If segment-based protocol blocks ports locally, then configuration complexity is reduced, but network-wide loop prevention effectiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures that each network segment is configured as a complete unit with all necessary loop prevention capabilities contained within it. By properly delimiting segment boundaries and ensuring each segment independently prevents loops, the overall network achieves comprehensive loop prevention while maintaining configuration simplicity through modular design.
Data Source
AI summary
Various systems and method of preventing data traffic connectivity between endpoints of a network segment are disclosed. One method involves receiving a segment protocol message from a first segment port within a network segment, which includes a plurality of network devices. In response to receipt of the segment protocol message, which can indicate whether connectivity is present between the segment endpoints via the network segment, a second segment port can be operated in a blocked state. Operating the second segment port in the blocked state prevents data plane connectivity via the network segment.