White Box Identification in Disaggregated Routing Systems
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In disaggregated network systems utilizing white-boxes, the complexity of identifying and provisioning multiple modular networking elements poses operational challenges, as each node must be automatically identified and assigned relevant software components to function as a single powerful network element, especially in dynamic and evolving environments.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for identifying white boxes in a disaggregated routing system using Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) to determine their functionalities, with each white box configured to perform specific roles such as data path forwarding, fabric module, elements' controller, or management switching, allowing them to operate as a unified entity within a network cloud.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If multiple modular networking elements (white boxes) are used to form a disaggregated system, then cost-effectiveness and hardware flexibility are improved, but the complexity of identifying and provisioning nodes worsens
Solution Approach 1:
Each white box automatically generates and broadcasts its own identification information through LLDP protocol, enabling self-identification without manual configuration. The system autonomously discovers nodes and their functionalities through automated message exchange, eliminating the need for complex manual provisioning processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The LLDP protocol implements a feedback mechanism where each white box receives identification information from neighbors and uses it to build a complete network topology map. This feedback loop enables automatic node identification and relationship mapping, reducing provisioning complexity in disaggregated systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If white boxes are dynamically added or removed from the disaggregated system, then system adaptability is improved, but the difficulty of maintaining synchronized software modules worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic LLDP message broadcasting that automatically adapts to topology changes. When white boxes are added or removed, the protocol continuously updates identification information and redistributes it across the network, maintaining software synchronization without manual intervention and supporting dynamic system evolution.
3Extent of automation
If Link Layer Discovery Protocol is used for node identification, then automated provisioning capability is improved, but the measurement precision of node functionalities may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification of basic node characteristics through LLDP before detailed functionality assignment. This two-stage approach first establishes automated node discovery and basic identification, then builds upon it with more precise functionality detection, maintaining both automation and precision.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
A disaggregated routing system is provided for use in a communication network comprising a plurality of white boxes, wherein at least four of the plurality of white boxes are each configured to carry out a functionality different from the functionalities which the other three of the at least four of the plurality of white boxes are configured to carry out, and wherein each of the at least four of the plurality of white boxes is identified based on its functionality.