Dynamic Network Topology Filtering by Node Characteristics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network topology mapping tools struggle to interpret and filter large, complex networks due to the difficulty in identifying and distinguishing between different network types or groups, and in displaying desired subsets of topology data.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows users to dynamically filter network topology maps by hiding or showing nodes based on characteristics such as SNMP status, AD DC status, and group membership, using collected topology data and user-defined filtering criteria to customize map views.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional topology mapping tools display all network nodes and connections, then complete network topology information is provided, but the complexity of interpreting and using the topology maps increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network topology display into multiple filtered views based on node characteristics (e.g., by device type, status, or group membership). Users can select specific criteria to segment the display, showing only relevant portions of the topology while hiding unnecessary details, thus reducing interpretation complexity while maintaining information completeness when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic filtering capabilities that allow users to interactively adjust topology display parameters. The system dynamically reconfigures the topology map based on user-selected criteria such as node status, device type, or network group, enabling flexible adaptation between detailed and simplified views without requiring multiple static maps.
2Quantity of substance
If conventional tools collect comprehensive topology data, then complete network mapping is achieved, but the ability to filter and display desired subsets of data is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary collection and storage of comprehensive topology data using network discovery protocols (SNMP, WMI, etc.), then enables users to filter this pre-collected data based on specific criteria. This separates the data collection phase from the display phase, allowing full data accumulation while providing flexible filtering capabilities through user-defined queries and category selections.
3Productivity
If network size and complexity increase, then more comprehensive network coverage is achieved, but the difficulty in identifying and distinguishing between different network types or groups increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by customizing the display characteristics of different node types within the topology map. Each node or network segment can be visually distinguished by its characteristics (e.g., color coding, icons, or labels indicating device type, status, or group membership), enabling users to quickly identify and distinguish between different network elements without overwhelming detail.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present application enable a user to map a network topology and to then dynamically filter the map display by hiding or showing nodes based on discovery characteristics, such as Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) status, Active Directory (AD) Domain Controllers (DC) status, group membership status, etc. to allow customization of maps views. In particular, a topology mapping is formed by collecting topology data of a network and storing this topology data. Filtering criteria are received from a user, and the stored topology data is filtered using this received filtering criteria. The filtered topology data is then displayed to the user.