Virtual Access Node Forwarding Entry Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of configuring forwarding entries on access nodes in optical access networks leads to operational challenges, particularly in Fiber to the Drop/Distribution Point (FTTDp) technologies where numerous access nodes need to be deployed, resulting in cumbersome management and maintenance processes.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for generating forwarding entries in optical networks using a virtual access node (AN) that includes an access port management apparatus, which acquires and generates forwarding entries for access devices based on virtual AN forwarding entries, simplifying the configuration process by determining ingress and egress ports and service identifiers, thereby automating the processing of services within the virtual AN.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If forwarding tables on access nodes are configured manually, then configuration precision can be ensured, but operation and maintenance complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The access node automatically generates forwarding entries by receiving service requirement information from the OLT and autonomously computing the forwarding table configurations, eliminating the need for manual configuration while ensuring accuracy through systematic processing
Solution Approach 2:
The OLT acts as an intermediary that receives service requirements from the network management system and translates them into specific forwarding entry configurations that are pushed to access nodes, simplifying the overall configuration process
2Adaptability or versatility
If numerous access nodes are deployed in FTTDp technology, then network coverage is improved, but configuration work of forwarding entries becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic forwarding entry generation mechanism is universally applicable to all access nodes in the FTTDp network, providing a standardized configuration approach that works across numerous deployed nodes without increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-calculates and pushes forwarding entry configurations to access nodes before services are activated, ensuring that all nodes are properly configured in advance rather than requiring complex on-demand configuration management
3Manufacturing precision
If manual configuration of forwarding entries is performed on each access node, then configuration accuracy can be maintained, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Access nodes automatically generate their own forwarding entries based on service requirement information received from the OLT, ensuring configuration accuracy through systematic processing while dramatically improving operational efficiency by eliminating manual configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where access nodes report their status and service requirements to the OLT, which then adjusts and pushes appropriate forwarding entries to ensure accurate configuration across the network
Data Source
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Figure 3
Figure 4A
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method and an apparatus for generating forwarding entries for devices in an optical network. The optical network includes a virtual access node AN, where the virtual AN includes a first access device, a second access device, and an access port management apparatus. The method includes: acquiring, by the access port management apparatus, a virtual AN forwarding entry sent by an access management device; generating a first forwarding entry for a first device in the first access device and the second access device according to the virtual AN forwarding entry; and generating a second forwarding entry for a second device in the first access device and the second access device according to the virtual AN forwarding entry. The virtual AN may automatically generate forwarding entries for the first access device and second access device in the virtual AN according to the virtual AN forwarding entry. Therefore, it is unnecessary to manually configure forwarding entries for the first access device and second access device in the virtual AN separately.