Automated Network Policy Configuration for Virtual Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
In computer networks, configuring network interconnection devices to accommodate virtual machines (VMs) requires manual coordination between server and network management tools, leading to delays and potential configuration errors.
Innovation Solution
A network management server publishes predefined network configuration service types associated with network policies, allowing a host manager to associate a virtual machine with a selected service type, which configures network interconnection devices automatically upon deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual coordination between server and network management tools is used to configure network interconnection devices, then configuration accuracy can be maintained through human review, but deployment time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated self-service configuration where the network management tool automatically configures network interconnection devices based on service type associations without requiring manual human coordination. The host manager automatically communicates with the network management tool to provision network policies, eliminating manual intervention while maintaining accuracy through predefined configuration templates.
Solution Approach 2:
Service type configurations are predefined and prepared in advance at the network management tool. When a virtual machine is deployed, the corresponding network configuration is automatically applied based on the pre-established service type associations, eliminating the need for real-time manual configuration while ensuring accuracy through pre-reviewed templates.
2Reliability
If manual coordination procedures are implemented between management tools, then configuration errors can be reduced through human verification, but the complexity of the deployment process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the host manager automatically communicates with the network management tool using standardized interfaces and protocols. This automated intermediary communication replaces complex manual coordination procedures, reducing process complexity while maintaining configuration accuracy through structured data exchange and predefined service type associations.
3Productivity
If automated configuration is implemented without manual review, then deployment speed increases and productivity improves, but configuration accuracy may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automated self-service configuration where the network management tool automatically provisions network policies based on service type associations. This eliminates manual review steps while maintaining accuracy through predefined configuration templates that ensure correct network policy application for each service type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automated feedback mechanisms where the network management tool receives deployment information from the host manager, automatically applies the appropriate network configuration, and can verify successful provisioning. This closed-loop feedback system ensures configuration accuracy without requiring manual verification, as the automated system confirms proper policy application.
Data Source
AI summary
Examples disclosed herein relate to associating an identifier for a virtual machine with a published network configuration service type. Examples include configuring an edge switch with a network policy in response to receiving the identifier from the edge switch.