Visualized Network Maintenance via Virtual Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network management systems for Internet service provider (ISP) bearer networks are limited in their ability to perform efficient operation and maintenance, especially in large and complex IP networks, where accurate and comprehensive understanding is hindered by the 'black box' phenomenon and high costs associated with probe deployment for path visualization and fault location.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for visualized network operation and maintenance that generates a workflow and creates a network modeling input to perform analog simulation, reducing the need for probe deployment by reconstructing and simulating the network, allowing for path visualization and fault location without affecting physical network forwarding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If probe deployment is used for path visualization and fault location, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the physical network through network modeling. Instead of deploying probes throughout the physical network, a virtual model replicates network topology, devices, and traffic flows. This virtual model can be analyzed and measured without physical probe deployment, achieving path visualization and fault location while eliminating the complexity and cost of extensive probe deployment.
2Measurement precision
If probe deployment is used for path visualization and fault location, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical probes with a virtual network model that can be analyzed computationally. The modeling system creates representations of network elements, connections, and traffic patterns, allowing fault location and path analysis to be performed on the virtual model rather than requiring deployment of numerous physical probes across the network infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical/physical probe deployment system with an information-based computational system. Instead of physically installing and managing probe devices throughout the network, the system uses data collection, network modeling algorithms, and virtual simulation to achieve the same measurement and diagnostic objectives, thereby eliminating the need for extensive physical probe infrastructure.
3Ease of operation
If traditional NMS is used for network management, then basic device management is achieved, but operation and maintenance efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual replica of the physical network that can be analyzed and simulated without affecting actual network operations. This virtual model enables operators to perform what-if analysis, predict network behavior under different conditions, and diagnose faults in the virtual environment before applying changes to the physical network, thereby significantly improving operational efficiency and reducing risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables preliminary analysis and simulation in the virtual network model before implementing changes in the physical network. Operators can test configurations, predict traffic patterns, and identify potential issues in the virtual model first, allowing them to prepare and optimize operations in advance, which improves overall network management efficiency and reduces operational disruptions.
Data Source
AI summary
This application discloses a method for visualized network operation and maintenance, including receiving a request for visualized network operation and maintenance, generating a workflow for visualized network operation and maintenance according to the request for visualized network operation and maintenance, and creating a network modeling input, and performing, according to the workflow for visualized network operation and maintenance, the network modeling input, and original information of network modeling, analog simulation on a network determined by the network modeling input.