SPB Network Configuration via Edge Device Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network configuration processes are lengthy and require significant expertise, making it difficult for non-SPB compatible devices to access and utilize SPB network infrastructure without manual administrator intervention.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where an edge configuration device automatically requests and receives SPB configuration information from a remote management server, allowing non-SPB devices to be authenticated and configured for SPB connectivity, enabling them to participate in SPB networks by creating VLANs and port memberships without manual input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual authentication and configuration processes are used for network devices, then network security and proper configuration are ensured, but the process becomes lengthy and requires significant administrator expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The end device automatically performs authentication and configuration by requesting SPB configuration information from the management server and sending it to the edge configuration device, eliminating the need for manual administrator intervention while maintaining proper configuration through automated validation processes
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-configures authentication credentials and SPB configuration information in the management server before the end device needs to connect, allowing the device to automatically retrieve and apply the correct configuration without waiting for manual setup
2Manufacturing precision
If manual administrator intervention is required for configuring non-SPB devices, then configuration accuracy is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The management server acts as an intermediary between the end device and the SPB network, providing automated authentication and configuration information that ensures accuracy while simplifying the user experience through a plug-and-play approach
Solution Approach 2:
The end device autonomously requests and applies SPB configuration information from the management server, transforming a complex manual configuration process into a simple automatic self-service operation that maintains accuracy through validated configuration data
3Ease of operation
If automated SPB configuration is implemented, then ease of operation and network accessibility improve, but device complexity increases due to the management server infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The management server provides multiple functions including authentication, configuration information storage, and device registration in a single centralized system, reducing the need for multiple separate infrastructure components while enabling automated configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The management server serves as a centralized intermediary that handles all complex authentication and configuration tasks, allowing end devices to remain simple while the server absorbs the system complexity through its multi-functional design
Data Source
AI summary
Implementations relate to configuration of networks using client device access of a remote server. In some implementations, a method includes requesting a management server from an end device for shortest path bridging (SPB) configuration information for the end device to communicate on an SPB network, where the end device communicates with the management server over a non-SPB connection. The SPB configuration information is received from the management server, and the SPB configuration information is sent to an edge configuration device connected to the end device, where the SPB configuration information causes configuration of the edge configuration device to allow communication of the end device on the SPB network.