Virtual Network Layer for Distributed System Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large distributed systems, especially those incorporating IoT devices, often experience errors due to untested network topologies, leading to increased downtime as issues are discovered late in deployment.
Innovation Solution
A virtual network layer is generated and configured to simulate a distributed system, allowing system administrators to provide parameters such as devices, latency, and protocols, enabling the creation of a virtual network topology with containers and interconnects, which can be simulated to identify potential issues before real-world deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If distributed systems are deployed without prior testing of network topologies, then deployment speed is improved, but system reliability deteriorates due to undetected errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary testing of distributed system network topologies through virtual machine-based simulation environments. The system allows administrators to define and test network configurations, including IoT devices and communication protocols, before actual deployment. This preliminary action identifies potential errors in network topology design and device interactions prior to production deployment, thereby maintaining both deployment speed and system reliability.
2Reliability
If comprehensive testing of distributed system topologies is performed before deployment, then system reliability is improved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of the distributed system network topology using virtual machines to simulate the actual deployment environment. Instead of testing on physical hardware, the system generates a virtual representation that replicates network devices, connections, and protocols. This copying approach enables comprehensive reliability testing without the time consumption associated with physical deployment and testing, as virtual environments can be rapidly instantiated and modified.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If virtual network simulation is implemented for distributed systems, then error detection capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal virtual machine-based testing platform that can simulate various distributed system configurations, network protocols, and device types through a single system. The virtual network layer is designed to be multi-functional, accommodating different topology types, communication protocols, and device characteristics without requiring separate testing infrastructure for each scenario. This universality enhances error detection capability while minimizing the increase in system complexity by consolidating multiple testing functions into one platform.
Data Source
AI summary
Parameters associated with a distributed network are received. A topology of a virtual network that corresponds to the distributed network is generated in view of the received parameters. The topology of the virtual network is configured to simulate the distributed network and a simulation of the distributed network is executed using the configured virtual network.