A Multi-layer Network Topology Discovery Algorithm Based on Set Operation

Abstract

Automatic discovery of network topology plays a crucial role in network management system. At present, many studies manifest that part of network topology can be determined using the simple network management protocol (SNMP) and the management information base (MIB) in network layer, those method can find out the full links in the network layer or above, but the links can not be entirely discovered in data link layer or below. In order to improve the accuracy of the network topology discovery, the multi-layer topology discovery method is proposed. The method analyzes the network topology from the network layer and data link layer. Firstly find out the logic topology of network, and then add the switches and the links based on the data link layer protocol to the logic topology structure, at last form the integrated network topology. By these works, have implemented a prototype system designed to verify its feasibility and effectiveness, and have demonstrated that the method can find the links between switches and other equipments completely.