Server Partition Data Communication Control via VLAN Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional computer server systems face difficulties in efficiently controlling data communication among partitions, particularly in ensuring security and managing VLAN settings, especially when there are many partitions and frequent changes occur.
Innovation Solution
A server system with a setting-information receiving unit and a communication controlling unit that manages data communication among information processing units based on received setting information, utilizing a hub with a VLAN function to configure and control data communication routes, ensuring secure and efficient data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If partitions are physically connected using a hub to enable data communication, then communication flexibility is improved, but security control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network communication into virtual channels by introducing virtual switch concepts and VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) configurations. Each partition can be assigned to different VLANs, creating logical segmentation that maintains physical connectivity while enabling independent security control. The hub is divided into multiple virtual switches, each managing specific communication paths between partitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a management server as an intermediary that centrally controls and configures the virtual switch settings. This management server receives security policies and communication rules, then automatically configures the virtual switches to enforce these policies. The intermediary layer abstracts the complex security control from the physical hub connection, enabling centralized security management without compromising communication flexibility.
2Reliability
If a hub with VLAN function is installed to control data communication among partitions, then security control is improved, but device complexity and configuration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automation where the management server automatically discovers partitions, assigns them to appropriate VLANs, and configures virtual switch settings based on pre-defined security policies. When new partitions are added or security requirements change, the system automatically reconfigures itself without requiring manual intervention. This eliminates the need for administrators to manually configure complex VLAN settings on each hub port.
Solution Approach 2:
The management server provides a universal configuration interface that handles multiple functions: partition discovery, VLAN assignment, security policy enforcement, and automatic configuration generation. This single multi-functional system replaces the need for separate manual configuration tools and expertise for each hub, simplifying the overall system management while maintaining comprehensive security control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the hub is arranged far from the respective partitions, then system scalability is improved, but ease of operation for VLAN configuration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical configuration (physically connecting and configuring hub ports near partitions) with automated electronic management. The management server uses electronic discovery protocols to identify partitions and automatically configures virtual switch settings through network protocols, eliminating the need for physical proximity or manual port identification. This substitution enables scalable deployment where hubs can be located remotely without increasing configuration complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A server includes a plurality of information processing units that respectively have a central processing unit and a memory, and that perform respective information processings in parallel; a setting-information receiving unit that receives setting information that indicates whether data communication can be performed among the information processing units; and a communication controlling unit that controls the data communication among the information processing units based on the setting information.