Simulated Network Isolation for Production Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing test environments for computer networks often cause unintended disruptions and liabilities due to network traffic exchange with production networks, limiting effective troubleshooting and testing of client applications and infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A computer network with simulated infrastructure and client simulation computers, isolated from production networks using a network simulation module that replicates production network parameters and configurations, preventing inadvertent traffic exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a test environment is deployed within the production network, then the ability to test client applications and troubleshoot issues is improved, but network traffic may be inadvertently exchanged between the test environment and production network causing disruptions and liabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simulated network that replicates the production network's infrastructure, topology, and behavior characteristics without being the actual production network. This copy allows comprehensive testing while maintaining isolation through simulation rather than direct duplication, preventing traffic exchange between test and production environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The simulated network acts as an intermediary layer between the test environment and the actual production network. It mediates testing activities by providing a realistic environment that mimics production behavior while blocking direct traffic paths to production systems, thus enabling testing without direct exposure risks.
2Measurement precision
If testing procedures are implemented in a production network with live traffic, then real-world testing accuracy is improved, but network saturation and production outages may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The simulated network replicates production network characteristics including traffic patterns, latency, bandwidth constraints, and infrastructure topology. This copying enables realistic testing scenarios that accurately measure application performance and troubleshoot issues without exposing the actual production network to testing risks that could cause saturation or outages.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If security measures are implemented to isolate the test environment from the production network, then protection from harmful effects is improved, but the extent of testing that can be performed is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By creating a comprehensive simulation of the production network infrastructure and behavior, the patent enables extensive testing scope within the isolated test environment. The simulated network replicates production characteristics so accurately that testing can proceed with full versatility while physical isolation measures protect the production network, resolving the contradiction between security and testing capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer network for providing a test environment is disclosed. The computer network may include at least one simulated network for simulating at least a portion of the infrastructure of a production network. The computer network may further include a network simulation module in communication with the simulated network for simulating at least one parameter of the production network, and a plurality of client simulation computers in communication with the simulated network via the network simulation module. Each client simulation computer may be configured to replicate at least one of a hardware configuration and a software configuration of a production network client.