Stub Router Query Suppression for Network Stability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Large digital networks with hub-and-spoke topology are vulnerable to destabilization due to configuration mistakes and query storms caused by the lack of complete routing tables in stub routers, leading to inefficiencies and network instability.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system with a distribution router and additional routers that selectively query non-stub routers for route information, using a modified conditional-receive algorithm to suppress queries to stub routers, enabling hybrid stub and non-stub interfaces and enhancing network scaling capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the hub router issues queries to all routers via the stub interface, then complete routing information can be obtained, but query storms occur causing network destabilization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating between stub routers and non-stub routers at the interface level. The hub router identifies which connected routers are stub routers and applies different query behaviors: suppressing queries to stub routers while maintaining queries to non-stub routers. This localized differentiation resolves the contradiction by obtaining routing information only from routers capable of providing it (non-stub routers) without triggering query storms that would destabilize the network.
2Adaptability or versatility
If stub routers are configured without stub-routing feature, then they can provide alternate routes, but the stub interface becomes vulnerable to configuration mistakes and query storms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of the modified conditional-receive algorithm that acts as a mediator between the hub router and stub routers. This algorithm intercepts and suppresses route queries before they reach stub routers, preventing configuration mistakes from causing query storms. Non-stub routers remain fully functional with complete routing capabilities, while stub routers are protected by this intermediary layer that filters out inappropriate queries.
3Reliability
If the hub router suppresses queries on stub interfaces, then network stability is maintained, but routing information from non-stub routers may be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the query suppression behavior conditional rather than static. The modified conditional-receive algorithm dynamically determines whether to suppress a query based on the specific router being queried and the type of route information being requested. Queries are suppressed only when directed to stub routers, while queries to non-stub routers proceed normally. This dynamic approach maintains network stability while preserving the ability to obtain routing information from capable routers.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for enhancing the behavior of a network. In an illustrative embodiment, the network includes a distribution router and plural additional routers connected to the distribution router. The system includes a first module that is adapted to characterize the additional routers as stub routers or non-stub routers and then to provide a signal in response thereto. A second module selectively queries non-stub routers for route information and does not query stub routers for the route information. In a more specific embodiment, the second module includes a unicast module for selectively unicasting queries to the non-stub routers. A multicast module selectively multicasts queries to the non-stub routers via a modified conditional-receive algorithm.