Virtual Chassis Control Protocols for Network Resiliency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Data networks face challenges in maintaining high availability and network resiliency due to component and link failures, and transitioning between different node architectures and topologies is difficult, requiring systems and methods to provide resiliency between nodes with varying architectures in multiple topologies.
Innovation Solution
A virtual chassis system is implemented, where network nodes operate as a single logical device with unified management, using virtual fabric links for communication and a master node selection based on prioritized parameters, allowing for seamless transition and management across different topologies and architectures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple node architectures (single switching elements, stackable switching elements, multi-slot chassis based network elements) are supported in a network, then network versatility and adaptability are improved, but device complexity and difficulty of management increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control plane that can manage multiple types of network elements (single switching elements, stackable switching elements, and multi-slot chassis based network elements) through a common interface and protocol. The control plane abstracts the heterogeneity of different node architectures, allowing unified configuration, monitoring, and control across diverse hardware platforms without requiring architecture-specific management logic.
2Reliability
If redundant nodes and multiple physical paths are implemented to achieve network resiliency, then network reliability is improved, but detection and convergence times increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-configures alternate paths and redundancy relationships between nodes before failures occur. The control plane maintains up-to-date topology information and pre-computes backup routing paths, so when a link or node failure is detected, the system can immediately switch to pre-established alternate paths without performing complex real-time routing calculations, thereby reducing convergence time.
3Stability of the object's composition
If it is made difficult to upgrade or transition between network topologies and node architectures, then system stability is improved, but adaptability and ease of upgrade are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic control plane that can adapt its behavior based on the current network topology and node architectures. The system supports hot-swapping and dynamic reconfiguration of network elements, allowing topology changes and architecture upgrades to occur without complete system shutdown. The control plane dynamically adjusts routing tables, forwarding rules, and management protocols to accommodate changing network conditions while maintaining operational stability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A virtual chassis system includes a plurality of network nodes configured with a master virtual chassis address. The network nodes are connected by virtual fabric link (VFLs) that provide a connection for exchange of data packets between the network nodes. The data packets include source MAC addresses and associated hardware device information, such as source chassis ID, source network interface identifier and source port identifier information. The network nodes use this information to maintain synchronized MAC address tables for forwarding of data packets in the virtual chassis system. One or more control protocols in the network node are used for topology discovery, master network node election, generation of routing tables, health monitoring and other functions.