Multi-layer network diagnostic tracing
US9137101B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 23, 2011 |
| Grant date | Sep 15, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 12, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L45/70
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A network management and monitoring application employs diagnostic messages for confirming network path connectivity and identifying and locating connectivity faults. Diagnostic messages similar to conventional “ping” and “traceroute” messages traverse the network along a prescribed path for which diagnostic feedback is desired. The application receives and analyzes return messages sent from network entities along the path to ascertain connectivity issues on the path. The application receives layer 3 identifiers such as IP addresses, however performs diagnostic operations such as continuity checks based on layer 2 identifiers such as MAC (Media Access Control) identifiers because certain network entities operate on L2 identifiers and would otherwise evade a continuity check based on layer 3 identifiers. The monitoring application therefore performs continuity diagnostics such as ping and traceroute operations using L2 identifiers, therefore pinpointing problems with an L2 network forwarding entity such as a bridge that lies between L3 entities such as routers.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.