Switch Controller Automates Multi-Switch Configuration via Unified Language
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Solution Overview
Problem
Configuring and testing multiple network switches requires manual access and separate command-line interface operations, making the process inefficient and time-consuming, especially in large network environments.
Innovation Solution
A switch control language and controller system that allows for writing and executing a switch program with instructions to configure and manage multiple switches remotely, using a centralized approach to automate configuration and testing processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual configuration and testing of each switch is performed separately through command line interface, then each switch can be configured individually, but the process becomes time-consuming and inefficient when multiple switches need to be configured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual switch configuration operations into a single integrated configuration file that can configure multiple switches simultaneously. Instead of accessing each switch separately through command line interface, the system merges all configuration commands for multiple switches into one unified file that can be executed together, dramatically improving productivity and reducing the time required for network switch configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by allowing administrators to prepare and review configuration commands in advance within a configuration file before actually applying them to the switches. The configuration file can be edited, validated, and reviewed prior to execution, enabling batch configuration of multiple switches without requiring immediate manual intervention for each device, thus saving significant time in large network environments.
2Ease of operation
If administrators manually access each switch through command line interface to configure and test switches, then precise control over each switch is achieved, but the operational complexity and time required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a configuration file as an intermediary between the administrator and the multiple switches. Instead of directly accessing each switch through complex command line interfaces, the administrator interacts with a single configuration file that serves as a mediator, containing all necessary commands for multiple switches. This intermediary simplifies the operation by consolidating multiple access points into one manageable file, reducing operational complexity while maintaining precise control over each switch.
3Reliability
If separate configuration commands are executed for each switch, then each switch can be tested individually, but the overall testing and configuration process becomes inefficient in large network environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by organizing configuration commands for multiple switches into distinct, separable sections within a single configuration file. Each switch's configuration commands are segmented into individual blocks or sections that can be clearly identified and executed in order. This segmentation maintains the reliability of individual switch configuration while enabling batch processing, thus improving overall network-wide configuration throughput without sacrificing configuration accuracy for each individual switch.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for configuring a switch with a switch controller that includes obtaining a switch program, wherein the switch program comprises a plurality of instructions written using a switch control language, and executing the switch program on the switch controller, wherein executing the switch program includes for each instruction in the plurality of instructions determining a switch specified by the instruction, sending the instruction to the switch, and configuring the switch based on the instruction.