Spare Interface Discovery in Multi-Layer Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-layer networks, spare interfaces between nodes are not effectively discovered or utilized for adding capacity, optimizing topology, or providing backup, due to the lack of a single-layer mechanism for auto-discovery and compatibility assessment across different network layers.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism is introduced that allows network devices to automatically discover and advertise spare interfaces between client and server nodes, using protocols like BGP and IGP to transmit connectivity and compatibility information, enabling dynamic capacity addition and topology optimization without requiring exhaustive multi-layer topology/resource discovery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-layer network structure is used to accommodate new services and optimize topology, then network capacity and flexibility are improved, but the complexity of discovering and utilizing spare interfaces across layers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the discovery of spare interfaces across multiple network layers into a unified single-layer mechanism. Network devices advertise their spare interface capacity and compatibility information through standard routing protocols (BGP, IGP) within a single network layer, eliminating the need for complex multi-layer discovery procedures while maintaining the ability to utilize spare interfaces for capacity addition and topology optimization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal interface advertisement mechanism that works across different network layers and protocols. By using standard routing protocol extensions (BGP-LS, IGP) that are universally supported, the system enables spare interface discovery and utilization without requiring layer-specific discovery mechanisms, thereby reducing complexity while maintaining versatility
2Loss of information
If exhaustive multi-layer topology and resource discovery is performed to find spare interfaces, then complete network awareness is improved, but the time and computational resources required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having network devices proactively advertise their spare interface capacity and compatibility information through routing protocols before any capacity addition or topology optimization is needed. This advance publication of interface information in routing tables allows network operators to immediately identify and utilize available spare interfaces without performing time-consuming discovery procedures when capacity is needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where network devices continuously update routing information about their spare interfaces through BGP-LS or IGP protocols. This ongoing feedback loop ensures that network operators have current awareness of available capacity without requiring periodic exhaustive discovery, as the routing protocols automatically propagate changes in real-time
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a method includes receiving at a node in a first network, information identifying a spare interface between a first network device in the first network and a second network device in a second network, and using the spare interface to create a path in the first network if the spare interface is compatible. The spare interface information includes connectivity and compatibility information.