VLAN Topology Mapping Error Correction for Network Traffic Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inconsistent VLAN to topology mappings in multi-destination, multi-path capable Layer 2 networks can lead to 'blackholing' of packets, resulting in network traffic loss due to misconfigurations at nodes or conflicts during configuration changes.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that detect errors in VLAN to topology mappings, modify forwarding rules to transmit packets to all forwarding ports in an unpruned tree corresponding to the packet's tree identifier, preventing packet loss by bypassing misconfigured nodes and ensuring packets reach their destinations without relying on VLAN congruency enforcement mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If VLAN to topology mappings are enforced consistently across all nodes, then network traffic reliability is improved, but network complexity increases due to configuration propagation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of configuration inconsistencies into a beneficial error detection mechanism. By monitoring VLAN to topology mapping consistency and detecting mismatches, the system can take corrective action to prevent packet blackholing, thus improving reliability without requiring complex centralized configuration propagation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring VLAN to topology mapping consistency across network nodes. When inconsistencies are detected, the system provides feedback to correct the mappings, ensuring packets are forwarded correctly without requiring complex proactive configuration propagation throughout the network.
2Reliability
If misconfiguration detection mechanisms are added to detect VLAN to topology mapping errors, then packet loss is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling network nodes to autonomously detect and correct their own VLAN to topology mapping inconsistencies. Each node monitors its own configuration consistency and takes corrective action without requiring external intervention or complex centralized management, thus improving packet delivery reliability while minimizing added complexity.
3Reliability
If strict VLAN congruency enforcement is implemented, then packet blackholing is prevented, but network adaptability decreases during configuration changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting VLAN to topology mapping inconsistencies before they cause packet blackholing. By monitoring configuration changes and detecting mismatches in advance, the system can prepare corrective actions that maintain packet forwarding reliability while allowing flexible configuration changes throughout the network.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a method includes receiving at a processor at a node, notification of an error in a VLAN to topology mapping at the node, receiving a multi-destination packet from the VLAN in the VLAN to topology mapping, the multi-destination packet including a tree identifier associated with one of the topologies, and transmitting the multi-destination packet to all forwarding ports at the node in an unpruned tree corresponding to the tree identifier contained in the multi-destination packet. An apparatus is also disclosed.