HITLESS NODE INSERTION FOR ETHERNET NETWORKS

摘要

A novel and useful hitless node insertion mechanism for configuring a new node to be inserted into an Ethernet network. The mechanism comprises pre-configuring the new node into a partially configured state, disconnecting a network link where the new node is to be inserted and connecting the new node to at least one end of the disconnected link. All data traffic received from neighboring nodes is then blocked and fake signal failure (SF) messages are generated and sent if Ethernet Ring Protection (ERP) messages are detected. An in-band management port is then selected and a configuration from a Network Management System (NMS) is received. Once configuration of the said new node is complete, the new node is set to a fully configured state.