Virtual Overlay Network Duplication for Live Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network duplication is a time-consuming and arduous process, requiring substantial intervention to configure a new network as a duplicate of an existing one, making it challenging for organizations to test, simulate, or troubleshoot network issues without affecting the live network.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for duplicating a network by creating a virtual overlay network with user-specified filters and parameters, allowing for shallow or deep copies of virtual devices, enabling independent operation and testing of the duplicate network without affecting the original.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional network duplication methods are used, then a duplicate network can be created for testing and troubleshooting, but the process is time-consuming and requires substantial manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated network duplication by creating virtual copies of network devices and configurations. The system automatically replicates network topology, device settings, and connectivity relationships without manual intervention, transforming the copying process from a labor-intensive task to an automated operation that maintains full network fidelity while dramatically reducing time requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary network analysis and preparation before duplication occurs. The system pre-identifies network devices, relationships, and configuration elements that need to be replicated, and pre-configures the duplication framework. This preliminary action enables the actual duplication process to execute rapidly without manual planning or setup during the copying operation itself
2Reliability
If traditional network duplication methods are used, then a duplicate network can be created, but substantial manual intervention and configuration are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automation where the network duplication system automatically performs all configuration tasks without human intervention. The system self-identifies network devices, self-determines replication parameters, self-configures virtual network copies, and self-validates duplication completeness. This transforms network duplication from a complex manual process requiring expert intervention to an automated self-executing operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal duplication framework that handles multiple network device types, configurations, and topologies through a single automated process. The system universally applies duplication logic across diverse network elements (routers, switches, firewalls, virtual machines) and configuration types, eliminating the need for separate manual procedures for different network components
Data Source
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AI summary
A computer-implemented method is provided, comprising: receiving a request to copy at least a portion of a first network that overlays one or more physical networks, the first network including a first set of virtual devices, a subset of the first set of virtual devices having been assigned at least one tag, the request including one or more user-specified filters that specify at least the one tag; copying at least the portion of the first network by: creating, in accordance with the user-specified filters, a second set of virtual devices, each virtual device of the second set of virtual devices corresponding to a virtual device of the subset that is assigned at least one tag; arranging the second set of virtual devices in a second network to overlay the one or more physical networks in accordance with a manner in which at least the portion of the first network overlays the one or more physical networks; and providing access to the second network.