Virtual Network Prototyping Using OS Copies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for evaluating network scenarios, such as link failure or software upgrades, in deployed networks often disrupt services or are cost-prohibitive, as they require actual network devices or shadow networks that inadequately mimic the deployed network.
Innovation Solution
A virtual network prototyping environment is created using virtual nodes that run an exact copy of a network operating system, allowing for the simulation of network changes without affecting the actual network, by logically interconnecting virtual machines to form a virtual network that mimics the deployed network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If evaluation is performed on actual network devices in deployed network, then scenario response accuracy is improved, but network service disruption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of network devices (virtual network devices) that replicate the behavior and characteristics of actual network devices. These virtual copies are used for scenario evaluation instead of testing on real devices, thereby maintaining measurement accuracy while preventing service disruption to the deployed network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a virtual network environment as an intermediary between the evaluation process and the actual deployed network. This intermediary layer allows comprehensive testing and scenario evaluation without direct interaction with production network devices, eliminating service disruption while preserving evaluation accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If shadow network with actual network devices is used, then scenario response accuracy is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive physical network devices in shadow networks with virtualized representations. These virtual network devices consume minimal computational resources while accurately simulating network device behavior, thereby maintaining scenario response accuracy while dramatically reducing the cost of maintaining shadow network infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs virtual network devices that can be rapidly created, modified, and disposed of without significant cost. These virtual instances can be instantiated as needed for specific scenario evaluations and then terminated, eliminating the need for permanent, expensive shadow network hardware infrastructure.
3Quantity of substance
If virtual network with software programs is used, then cost is reduced, but scenario response accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates accurate virtual copies of network devices that replicate not just basic functionality but also specific hardware characteristics, proprietary protocols, and device-specific behaviors. These detailed copies maintain scenario response accuracy while keeping costs low through virtualization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs configurable virtual network devices where parameters such as hardware characteristics, software versions, and operational behaviors can be adjusted to match actual network devices. This flexibility allows accurate scenario evaluation across different network configurations without requiring multiple physical devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a storage device to store information associated with virtual nodes that correspond to network nodes. The system also includes a server to install a virtual node that corresponds to one of the network nodes, based on the information associated with the virtual node, where installing the virtual node includes creating a logical interface via which traffic is to be sent to, or received from, other virtual nodes; start the virtual node to create an operating virtual node based on a copy of an operating system that is run on the network node, where starting the virtual node causes the operational virtual node to execute the copy of the operating system; and cause the operating virtual node to communicate with a virtual network that includes the virtual nodes, where causing the operating virtual node to communicate with the virtual network enables the operating virtual node to receive or forward traffic associated with the virtual network.