DESC:
FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10 and rule 13)
1. TITLE OF THE INVENTION
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING A SINGLE POINT OF FAILURE (SPOF) IN FIBER NETWORKS
2. APPLICANT(S)
NAME NATIONALITY ADDRESS
JIO PLATFORMS LIMITED INDIAN OFFICE-101, SAFFRON, NR. CENTRE POINT, PANCHWATI 5 RASTA, AMBAWADI, AHMEDABAD 380006, GUJARAT, INDIA
3.PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION

THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE NATURE OF THIS INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of optical fiber communication systems, more particularly relates to a method and a system for determining a Single Point of Failure (SPOF) in fiber networks.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Fiber network architecture across the world is connected via multiple routes/traces and these traces contain multiple fiber segments. Traffic flows from one destination to another through a fiber which is deployed. Sometimes a portion of fiber deployed between a source and destination may be shared with another source or destination resulting in a common/single point of intersection which is identified as a Single Point of Failure (SPOF).
[0003] Ideally the traffic should have completely different traces between each site so that a single failure of one site and segment does not affect any other site. Any common segments between any sites in any route if present, can cause single point of failure in that site, such failures may be the result of geological/accidental issue etc, leading to disruption of traffic arriving at the point of failure. In order to salvage the disrupted traffic as well as to effectively plan future routes to prevent the failures from occurring in the future, identification of the single/common point of failure is crucial.
[0004] Currently, there is no system in place to conduct this task. The only way to identify the SPOF is to manually perform the identification task. Since the task is currently manually performed, time taken is very long, the process is tedious, and results contain human error, leading to an inefficient method of identifying faults.
[0005] This inefficient method of identifying faults can take days and that too with faulty reports, the current methods and systems are also unable to efficiently assist future planning of the fiber network to avoid the single point of failure before deployment.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method and a system for determining a Single Point Failure (SPOF) in fiber networks.
[0007] In one aspect of the present invention, the method for determining the Single Point Failure (SPOF) in the fiber networks is disclosed. The method includes the step of receiving, by one or more processors, data pertaining to a list of a plurality of nodes. The method includes the step of segregating, by the one or more processors, each of the plurality of nodes from the list based on an associated network layer. The method includes the step of retrieving, by the one or more processors, trace data of each fiber emerging from each node segregated from the list. The method includes the step of mapping, by the one or more processors, the associated network layer of each node with the corresponding trace data. The method includes the step of identifying, by the one or more processors, one or more deviations based on processing the mapped associated network layer with the corresponding trace data. The method includes the step of inferring, by the one or more processors, presence of the SPOF pertaining to the identified one or more deviations in at least one network layer in the fiber networks based on identifying one or more common segments in the fiber networks.
[0008] In one embodiment, the step of, identifying, one or more deviations based on processing the mapped associated network layer with the corresponding trace data, includes the steps of checking, by the one or more processors, if transmission and reception trace data in relation to the fiber networks is present between at least two nodes of the plurality of nodes. The method further includes checking, by the one or more processors, if the transmission and reception trace data between the two nodes do not overlap in entirety in response to detecting presence of the transmission and reception trace data between the at least two nodes of the plurality of nodes. The method further includes inferring, by the one or more processors, presence of one or more deviations, in response to detecting based on checking that the retrieved transmission and reception trace data between the two nodes do not overlap in entirety.
[0009] In another embodiment, the method includes the step of analyzing, by the one or more processors, the mapping related to the associated network layer of each node with the corresponding trace data of the plurality of nodes in order to identify the one or more common segments in the fiber networks.
[0010] In yet another embodiment, the method includes the step of, updating, by the one or more processors, a SPOF summary report of each network layer in a network operator defined format in order to infer the presence of the SPOF in at least one network layer in the fiber networks based on identifying the one or more deviations.
[0011] In another aspect of the present invention, the system for determining the Single Point Failure (SPOF) in the fiber networks is disclosed. The system includes a transceiver, configured to receive data pertaining to a list of a plurality of nodes. The system includes a segregating unit, configured to segregate, each of the plurality of nodes from the list based on an associated network layer. The system includes a retrieving unit, configured to, retrieve, trace data of each fiber emerging from each node segregated from the list. The system includes a mapping unit, configured to, map, the associated network layer of each node with the corresponding trace data. The system includes an identifying unit, configured to identify, one or more deviations based on processing the mapped associated network layer with the corresponding trace data. The system includes an inferring unit, configured to, infer, presence of the SPOF pertaining to the identified one or more deviations in at least one network layer in the fiber networks based on identifying one or more common segments in the fiber networks.
[0012] In another aspect of the present invention, a network operator equipment is disclosed. One or more primary processors communicatively coupled to one or more processors. The one or more primary processors coupled with a memory. The memory stores instructions which when executed by the one or more primary processors causes the UE to transmit data pertaining to a list of a plurality of nodes to the one or more processors.
[0013] In yet another aspect of the present invention, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon computer-readable instructions that, when executed by a processor is disclosed. The processor is configured to receive data pertaining to a list of a plurality of nodes. The processor is configured to segregate each of the plurality of nodes from the list based on an associated network layer. The processor is configured to retrieve trace data of each fiber emerging from each node segregated from the list. The processor is configured to map the associated network layer of each node with the corresponding trace data. The processor is configured to identify, one or more deviations based on processing the mapped associated network layer with the corresponding trace data. The processor is configured to infer, presence of the SPOF pertaining to the identified one or more deviations in at least one network layer in the fiber networks based on identifying one or more common segments in the fiber networks.
[0014] Other features and aspects of this invention will be apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings. The features and advantages described in this summary and in the following detailed description are not all-inclusive, and particularly, many additional features and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art, in view of the drawings, specification, and claims hereof. Moreover, it should be noted that the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes and may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter, resort to the claims being necessary to determine such inventive subject matter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein, and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosed methods and systems in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Some drawings may indicate the components using block diagrams and may not represent the internal circuitry of each component. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that disclosure of such drawings includes disclosure of electrical components, electronic components or circuitry commonly used to implement such components.
[0016] FIG. 1 is an exemplary block diagram of an environment for determining a Single Point of Failure (SPOF) in fiber networks, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0017] FIG. 2 is an exemplary block diagram of a system for determining the SPOF in fiber networks, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0018] FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of a workflow of the system of FIG. 2 communicably coupled with a network operator equipment, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0019] FIG. 4 is an exemplary block diagram of the SPOF, traces between sources and destination points of traffic, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; and
[0020] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for determining the SPOF in fiber networks, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0021] The foregoing shall be more apparent from the following detailed description of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] Some embodiments of the present disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0023] Various modifications to the embodiment will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art and the generic principles herein may be applied to other embodiments. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the present disclosure including the definitions listed here below are not intended to be limited to the embodiments illustrated but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features described herein.
[0024] A person of ordinary skill in the art will readily ascertain that the illustrated steps detailed in the figures and here below are set out to explain the exemplary embodiments shown, and it should be anticipated that ongoing technological development will change the manner in which particular functions are performed. These examples are presented herein for purposes of illustration, and not limitation. Further, the boundaries of the functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternative boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed. Alternatives (including equivalents, extensions, variations, deviations, etc., of those described herein) will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on the teachings contained herein. Such alternatives fall within the scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments.
[0025] The present invention relates to a system and a method for determining Single Point of Failure (SPOF) in fiber networks. The system receives details of the SPOF at the time of planning, so that before deployment, one or more deviations and the SPOF can be prevented. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, inventory data (data relating to traces and sites collected and available for analysis) is used to receive initial details of the SPOF at the time of planning, so that before the deployment, the one or more deviations can be prevented, by ensuring that in the future, a fiber deployment having a common point can be changed, preferably by ensuring no overlap of traces/routes (path taken by traffic from the source/transmitter to destination/receiver) so that there are no single points of failure.
[0026] Referring to FIG. 1, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of an environment 100 for determining a Single Point of Failure (SPOF) 404 (as shown in FIG.4) in fiber networks, according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The environment 100 includes a network 105, a network operator equipment 110, a server 115, a system 120, and a plurality of nodes 125. The network operator equipment 110 aids a user to interact with the system 120 for transmitting data pertaining to a list of the plurality of nodes 125 to one or more processors (as shown in FIG.2). In an embodiment, the user is one of, but not limited to, a network planning team member or a network analyst.
[0027] For the purpose of description and explanation, the description will be explained with respect to the network operator equipment 110, or to be more specific will be explained with respect to a first network operator equipment 110a, a second network operator equipment 110b, and a third network operator equipment 110c, and should nowhere be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Each of the network operator equipment 110 from the first network operator equipment 110a, the second network operator equipment 110b, and the third network operator equipment 110c is configured to connect to the server 115 via the network 105.
[0028] In an embodiment, the first third network operator equipment 110a is one of, but is not limited to, hubs, switches, routers, bridges, gateways, modems, repeaters, and access points. In an embodiment, each of the second network operator equipment 110b, and the third network operator equipment 110c is one of, but not limited to, any electrical, electronic, electro-mechanical or an equipment and a combination of one or more of the above devices such as smartphones, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, laptop, a general-purpose computer, desktop, personal digital assistant, tablet computer, mainframe computer, or any other computing device.
[0029] The network 105 includes, by way of example but not limitation, one or more of a wireless network, a wired network, an internet, an intranet, a public network, a private network, a packet-switched network, a circuit-switched network, an ad hoc network, an infrastructure network, a Public-Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), a cable network, a cellular network, a satellite network, a fiber optic network, or some combination thereof. The network 105 may include, but is not limited to, a Third Generation (3G), a Fourth Generation (4G), a Fifth Generation (5G), a Sixth Generation (6G), a New Radio (NR), a Narrow Band Internet of Things (NB-IoT), an Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN), and the like.
[0030] The server 115 may include by way of example but not limitation, one or more of a standalone server, a server blade, a server rack, a bank of servers, a server farm, hardware supporting a part of a cloud service or system, a home server, hardware running a virtualized server, one or more processors executing code to function as a server, one or more machines performing server-side functionality as described herein, at least a portion of any of the above, some combination thereof. In an embodiment, the entity may include, but is not limited to, a vendor, a network operator, a company, an organization, a university, a lab facility, a business enterprise, a defense facility, or any other facility that provides content.
[0031] The environment 100 further includes the plurality of nodes 125 communicably coupled to the server 115 and each of the first network operator equipment 110a, the second network operator equipment 110b, and the third network operator equipment 110c via the network 105. The plurality of nodes 125 refers to multiple network nodes within a telecommunications or data network. The plurality of nodes 125 can include various types of equipment or devices that participate in the network's operation and data transmission. A collection of multiple distinct nodes within the network 105 that perform specific functions related to data transmission, processing, or network management.
[0032] The environment 100 further includes the system 120 communicably coupled to the server 115 and each of the first network operator equipment 110a, the second network operator equipment 110b, and the third network operator equipment 110c via the network 105. The system 120 is configured for determining the SPOF 404 in the fiber networks. The system 120 is adapted to be embedded within the server 115 or is embedded as the individual entity, as per multiple embodiments of the present invention.
[0033] Operational and construction features of the system 120 will be explained in detail with respect to the following figures.
[0034] FIG. 2 is an exemplary block diagram of the system 120 for determining the SPOF 404 in the fiber networks, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0035] The system 120 includes a processor 205, a memory 210, a user interface 215, and a database 250. For the purpose of description and explanation, the description will be explained with respect to one or more processors 205, or to be more specific will be explained with respect to the processor 205 and should nowhere be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The one or more processor 205, hereinafter referred to as the processor 205 may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, single board computers, and/or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions.
[0036] As per the illustrated embodiment, the processor 205 is configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory 210. The memory 210 may be configured to store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, which may be fetched and executed to create or share data packets over a network service. The memory 210 may include any non-transitory storage device including, for example, volatile memory such as RAM, or non-volatile memory such as EPROM, flash memory, and the like.
[0037] The user interface 215 includes a variety of interfaces, for example, interfaces for a Graphical User Interface (GUI), a web user interface, a Command Line Interface (CLI), and the like. The user interface 215 facilitates communication of the system 120. In one embodiment, the user interface 215 provides a communication pathway for one or more components of the system 120. Examples of the one or more components include, but are not limited to, the network operator equipment 110, and the database 250.
[0038] The database 250 is configured to store the data from the network operator equipment 110. The database 250 is one of, but not limited to, a centralized database, a cloud-based database, a commercial database, an open-source database, a distributed database, an end-user database, a graphical database, a No-Structured Query Language (NoSQL) database, an object-oriented database, a personal database, an in-memory database, a document-based database, a time series database, a wide column database, a key value database, a search database, a cache databases, and so forth. The foregoing examples of database 250 types are non-limiting and may not be mutually exclusive e.g., a database can be both commercial and cloud-based, or both relational and open-source, etc.
[0039] Further, the processor 205, in an embodiment, may be implemented as a combination of hardware and programming (for example, programmable instructions) to implement one or more functionalities of the processor 205. In the examples described herein, such combinations of hardware and programming may be implemented in several different ways. For example, the programming for the processor 205 may be processor-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and the hardware for processor 205 may comprise a processing resource (for example, one or more processors), to execute such instructions. In the present examples, the memory 210 may store instructions that, when executed by the processing resource, implement the processor 205. In such examples, the system 120 may comprise the memory 210 storing the instructions and the processing resource to execute the instructions, or the memory 210 may be separate but accessible to the system 120 and the processing resource. In other examples, the processor 205 may be implemented by electronic circuitry.
[0040] In order for the system 120 to determine the SPOF 404 in the fiber networks, the processor 205 includes a transceiver 220, a segregating unit 225, a retrieving unit 230, a mapping unit 235, an identifying unit 240, and an inferring unit 245 communicably coupled to each other. In an embodiment, operations and functionalities of the transceiver 220, the segregating unit 225, the retrieving unit 230, the mapping unit 235, the identifying unit 240, and the inferring unit 245 can be used in combination or interchangeably.
[0041] The transceiver 220 is configured to receive data pertaining to the list of the plurality of nodes 125. In one embodiment, the data includes, but not limited to, inventory data of all active and connected nodes. More specifically, the data includes, but is not limited to, data relating to traces and sites collected and available for analysis of all of the active and the connected nodes. The transceiver 220 is configured to receive the data pertaining to each of the plurality of nodes 125, which includes information like node status, performance metrics, and any relevant operational data.
[0042] Upon receiving the data pertaining to the list of the plurality of nodes 125, the segregating unit 225 is configured to segregate each node from the received list based on an associated network layer. In an embodiment, the associated network layer includes, but is not limited to, a regional core, a metro super core mini-DC, a metro super core, a metro access, a metro core CD, and the like. The regional core refers to the plurality of nodes 125 that manage the traffic within a specific geographical region. The metro super core mini-DC (Data Center) refers to smaller data centers within a metropolitan area super core network. The metro super core refers to central nodes within a metropolitan area network that handle high-capacity traffic. The metro access refers to the plurality of nodes 125 that provide access to the metropolitan area network, often serving end-users or edge devices. The metro core CD refers to core distribution nodes within the metropolitan area network, responsible for distributing the traffic to various sub-networks.
[0043] Upon segregating each of the plurality of nodes 125 from the list based on the associated network layer, the retrieving unit 230 is configured to retrieve trace data of each fiber emerging from each node segregated from the list. The trace data of each fiber emerging from each node refers to the detailed information about the characteristics and performance of fiber connections originating from each node. The trace data typically includes various metrics and attributes that help in monitoring and managing a fiber network. In an embodiment, the trace data pertaining to the list of the plurality of nodes 125 is provided in an excel format by the network operator team. The segregated node data and the retrieved trace data are stored in a structured manner, typically in the database 250.
[0044] Upon retrieving the trace data of each fiber emerging from each node segregated from the list, the mapping unit 235 is configured to map the associated network layer of each node with the corresponding trace data of each node. The mapping unit 235 is configured to map each of the segregated node and their associated network layer information with the corresponding trace data retrieved for each fiber. The mapping unit 235 is configured to create a comprehensive view of a relation between each node's fiber connections relating to the associated network layer. The mapping unit 235 is configured to integrate the network layer information with the trace data, forming detailed mappings that show how fibers traverse through different network layers.
[0045] Upon mapping the associated network layer of each node with the corresponding trace data of each node, the identifying unit 240 is configured to identify one or more deviations based on processing the mapped associated network layer with the corresponding trace data. The identifying unit 240 is configured to process the mapped data to identify the one or more deviations. The identifying unit 240 is configured to identify the one or more deviations by checking if transmission and reception trace data in relation to the fiber networks is present between at least two nodes of the plurality of nodes 125.
[0046] In response to detecting presence of the transmission and reception trace data between the at least two nodes of the plurality of nodes 125, the identifying unit 240 is configured to check if the transmission and reception trace data between the at least two nodes overlap or fails to overlap in entirety. The identifying unit 240 is configured to infer the presence of one or more deviations, in response to detecting based on checking that the retrieved transmission and reception trace data between the two nodes do not overlap in entirety.
[0047] In an alternate embodiment, the identifying unit 240 is configured to identify the one or more deviations based on processing the mapped associated network layer with the corresponding trace data. In an embodiment, the trace data is provided in the excel format by the network operator team. In an exemplary embodiment, if the fiber trace data is present more than one time in the list, then the identifying unit 240 is configured to remove the trace data (which is duplicate trace data) from the list. The identifying unit 240 is configured to identify the one or more deviations by using the remaining trace data. Upon identifying the one or more deviations, the inferring unit 245 is configured to infer the presence of the SPOF 404. Upon inferring the presence of the SPOF 404, multiple routes are added in order to prevent the one or more deviations from occurring in the future.
[0048] Further, the inferring unit 245 is configured to infer presence of the SPOF 404 pertaining to the identified one or more deviations in at least one network layer in the fiber networks based on identifying one or more common segments in the fiber networks. The one or more common segments in the fiber networks are identified by analyzing the mapping related to the associated network layer of each node with the corresponding trace data of the plurality of nodes. Upon inferring the presence of the SPOF 404 in the at least one network layer in the fiber networks, the inferring unit 245 is configured to update a SPOF 404 summary report of each network layer in a network operator defined format.
[0049] By doing so, the system 120 is able to, advantageously, identify the one or more common segments automatically and generate analysis report with the exact segment Id and common distance among the traces. The system 120 is further configured to identify the duplicate trace data, one or more deviations among the transmission and reception traces and it will also help identify the SPOF 404 present in two or more traces in reverse direction as well. Thus, the system 120 reduces time to identify the SPOF 404, memory space requirement, and improves processing speed of the processor 205.
[0050] FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of a workflow of the system of FIG. 2 communicably coupled with the network operator equipment 110, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. More specifically, FIG. 3 illustrates the system 120 configured for determining the SPOF 404 in the fiber networks. It is to be noted that the embodiment with respect to FIG. 3 will be explained with respect to the first network operator equipment 110a for the purpose of description and illustration and should nowhere be construed as limited to the scope of the present disclosure.
[0051] As mentioned earlier in FIG.1, In an embodiment, the first network operator equipment 110a may encompass electronic apparatuses. These devices are illustrative of, but not restricted to, modems, routers, switches, laptops, tablets, smartphones (including phones), or other devices enabled for web connectivity. The scope of the first network operator equipment 110a explicitly extends to a broad spectrum of electronic devices capable of executing computing operations and accessing networked resources, thereby providing users with a versatile range of functionalities for both personal and professional applications. This embodiment acknowledges the evolving nature of electronic devices and their integral role in facilitating access to digital services and platforms. In an embodiment, the first network operator equipment 110a can be associated with multiple users. Each of the first network operator equipment 110a is communicatively coupled with the processor 205.
[0052] The first network operator equipment 110a includes one or more primary processors 305 communicably coupled to the one or more processors 205 of the system 120. The one or more primary processors 305 are coupled with a memory 310 storing instructions which are executed by the one or more primary processors 305. Execution of the stored instructions by the one or more primary processors 305 enables the first network operator equipment 110a to transmit the data pertaining to the list of the plurality of nodes 125 to the one or more processors 205.
[0053] Furthermore, the one or more primary processors 305 within the first network operator equipment 110a are uniquely configured to execute a series of steps as described herein. This configuration underscores the processor 205 capability to stitch the subscriber profile with the trace data. The coordinated functioning of the one or more primary processors 305 and the additional processors, is directed by the executable instructions stored in the memory 310. The executable instructions facilitate effective task distribution and management among the one or more primary processors 305, optimizing performance and resource use.
[0054] As mentioned earlier in FIG.2, the system 120 includes the one or more processors 205, the memory 210, the user interface 215, and the database 250. The operations and functions of the one or more processors 205, the memory 210, the user interface 215, and the database 250 are already explained in FIG. 2. For the sake of brevity, a similar description related to the working and operation of the system 120 as illustrated in FIG. 2 has been omitted to avoid repetition.
[0055] Further, the processor 205 includes the transceiver 220, the segregating unit 225, the retrieving unit 230, the mapping unit 235, the identifying unit 240, and the inferring unit 245. The operations and functions of the transceiver 220, the segregating unit 225, the retrieving unit 230, the mapping unit 235, the identifying unit 240, and the inferring unit 245 are already explained in FIG. 2. Hence, for the sake of brevity, a similar description related to the working and operation of the system 120 as illustrated in FIG. 2 has been omitted to avoid repetition. The limited description provided for the system 120 in FIG. 3, should be read with the description provided for the system 120 in the FIG. 2 above, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.
[0056] FIG. 4 is an exemplary block diagram of the SPOF 404, trace data between sources and destination points of traffic, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0057] In the first scenario, the traffic originates from two points, such as a point A 401 (source-1) and a point C 403 (source-2). The trace data flows from the point A 401 to a point B 402 and from the point C 403 to the point B 402. The SPOF 404 is present between the source (the point A 401 and the point B 402) and the destination (point B). A path from both the point A 401 (source-1) and the point C 403 (source-2) to the point B 402 (destination) overlaps at a segment of the network shared by traffic from both point A 401 and point C 403 to the point B 402 that contains the SPOF 404.
[0058] In the second scenario, the traffic flows from the point A 401 (source-1) to the point B 402 (destination) and from the point B 402 (now acting as source-2) to the Point C 403 (destination). The SPOF 404 and the overlapping patch are present between the source and the destination. The traffic in the second scenario is moving in a reverse direction compared to the first scenario, i.e., traffic from the point B 402 to the point C 403 is moving in the reverse direction of the traffic from the point A 401 to the point B 402.
[0059] In an aspect of the present invention, when the traffic flows from the point A 401 to the point B 402, the receiving point B 402 sends an acknowledgement back to the point A 401 as a receiver trace to identify the SPOF 404. If the point B 402 fails to receive traffic or send back acknowledgments, the SPOF 404 can be identified as a problematic segment. Similarly, the SPOF 404 is identified in the reverse direction (for example, from the point B 402 to the point C 403). If the point C 403 fails to receive the traffic from the point B 402 or does not get an acknowledgment, the SPOF 404 is identified as the failure point in the reverse direction.
[0060] In an aspect of the present invention, when the point B 402 stops functioning (e.g., stops deploying signals or fails), its associated routes are compromised. The routes from the point A 401 to the point B 402 and from the point B 402 to the point C 403 become inoperative. The disruption helps to identify the routes and the SPOF 404 related to the point B 402. Further, the operational status of the sites, including the point B 402, is continuously monitored to quickly identify and resolve the issues in the key sites, thereby maintaining network functionality.
[0061] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 500 for determining the SPOF 404 in the fiber networks, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. For the purpose of description, the method 500 is described with the embodiments as illustrated in FIG. 2 and should nowhere be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.
[0062] At step 505, the method 500 includes the step of receiving the data pertaining to the list of the plurality of nodes 125 by the transceiver 220. The transceiver 220 is configured to receive the data pertaining to each of the plurality of nodes 125, which includes information like node status, performance metrics, and any relevant operational data.
[0063] At step 510, the method 500 includes the step of segregating each node from the received list based on an associated network layer by the segregating unit 225. In an embodiment, the associated network layer includes, but is not limited to the physical layer, the data link layer, the network layer, etc.
[0064] At step 515, the method 500 includes the step of retrieving the trace data of each fiber emerging from each node segregated from the list by the retrieving unit 230. In an embodiment, the trace data pertaining to the list of the plurality of nodes 125 is provided in an excel format by the network operator team. The segregated node data and the retrieved trace data are stored in a structured manner, typically in the database 250.
[0065] At step 520, the method 500 includes the step of mapping the associated network layer of each node with the corresponding trace data of each node by the mapping unit 235. The mapping unit 235 is configured to map the segregated each node and their associated network layer information with the corresponding trace data retrieved for each fiber. The mapping unit 235 is configured to create the comprehensive view of how each node's fiber connections relate to different network layers. The mapping unit 235 is configured to integrate the network layer information with the trace data, forming detailed mappings that show how fibers traverse through different network layers.
[0066] At step 525, the method 500 includes the step of identifying one or more deviations based on processing the mapped associated network layer with the corresponding trace data by the identifying unit 240. The identifying unit 240 is configured to process the mapped data to identify the one or more deviations. For identifying the one or more deviations includes the step of checking if transmission and reception trace data in relation to the fiber networks is present between at least two nodes of the plurality of nodes 125. In response to detecting presence of the transmission and reception trace data between the at least two nodes of the plurality of nodes 125, the identifying unit 240 is configured to check if the transmission and reception trace data between the at least two nodes do not overlap in entirety. The identifying unit 240 is configured to infer the presence of one or more deviations, in response to detecting based on checking that the retrieved transmission and reception trace data between the two nodes do not overlap in entirety.
[0067] At step 530, the method 500 includes the step of inferring presence of the SPOF 404 pertaining to the identified one or more deviations in at least one network layer in the fiber networks by the inferring unit 245. The one or more common segments in the fiber networks are identified by analyzing the mapping related to the associated network layer of each node with the corresponding trace data of the plurality of nodes. Upon inferring the presence of the SPOF 404 in the at least one network layer in the fiber networks, the inferring unit 245 is configured to update the SPOF 404 summary report of each network layer in the network operator defined format.
[0068] The present invention further discloses a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon computer-readable instructions. The computer-readable instructions are executed by the processor 205. The processor 205 is configured to receive data pertaining to a list of a plurality of nodes 125 from a network operator team. The processor 205 is configured to segregate each of the plurality of nodes 125 from the list based on an associated network layer. The processor 205 is configured to retrieve trace data of each fiber emerging from each node segregated from the list. The processor 205 is configured to map the associated network layer of each node with the corresponding trace data. The processor 205 is configured to identify one or more deviations based on processing the mapped associated network layer with the corresponding trace data. The processor 205 is configured to infer, presence of the SPOF 404 pertaining to the identified one or more deviations in at least one network layer in the fiber networks based on identifying one or more common segments in the fiber networks.
[0069] A person of ordinary skill in the art will readily ascertain that the illustrated embodiments and steps in description and drawings (FIG.1-5) are set out to explain the exemplary embodiments shown, and it should be anticipated that ongoing technological development will change the manner in which particular functions are performed. These examples are presented herein for purposes of illustration, and not limitation. Further, the boundaries of the functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternative boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed. Alternatives (including equivalents, extensions, variations, deviations, etc., of those described herein) will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on the teachings contained herein. Such alternatives fall within the scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments.
[0070] The present disclosure provides technical advancement for identifying the one or more deviations and the SPOF pertaining to the identified one or more deviations in at least one network layer in the fiber networks. Once the identification is complete it will generate a consolidated report for the identified SPOF for engineers to identify and rectify the single point of failure and take appropriate action.
[0071] The present disclosure provides advantages for enabling automation of the SPOF identification in the fiber networks across the world within different fiber layers. The present disclosure enables identifying all common segments automatically and generate analysis report with the exact segment Id and common distance among two traces. Further, the present disclosure removes the duplicate trace data, identifies the one or more deviations among the transmitter and receiver traces and it will also help identify the SPOF present in two or more traces in reverse direction as well. Further, the present disclosure assists in planning the fiber deployment so that the SPOF is prevented prior to deployment.
[0072] The present invention offers multiple advantages over the prior art and the above listed are a few examples to emphasize on some of the advantageous features. The listed advantages are to be read in a non-limiting manner.

REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0073] Environment - 100
[0074] Network-105
[0075] Network operator equipment- 110
[0076] Server - 115
[0077] System -120
[0078] Plurality of nodes- 125
[0079] Processor - 205
[0080] Memory - 210
[0081] User interface-215
[0082] Transceiver – 220
[0083] Segregating unit– 225
[0084] Retrieving unit – 230
[0085] Mapping unit– 235
[0086] Identifying unit- 240
[0087] Inferring unit- 245
[0088] Database- 250
[0089] Primary processor- 305
[0090] Memory- 310
[0091] Point A- 401
[0092] Point B- 402
[0093] Point C- 403
[0094] SPOF- 404

,CLAIMS:CLAIMS
We Claim:
1. A method (500) for determining a Single Point Failure (SPOF) (404) in fiber networks, the method (500) comprising the steps of:
receiving, by one or more processors (205), data pertaining to a list of a plurality of nodes (125);
segregating, by the one or more processors (205), each of the plurality of nodes (125) from the list based on an associated network layer;
retrieving, by the one or more processors (205), trace data of each fiber emerging from each node segregated from the list;
mapping, by the one or more processors (205), the associated network layer of each node with the corresponding trace data;
identifying, by the one or more processors (205), one or more deviations based on processing the mapped associated network layer with the corresponding trace data; and
inferring, by the one or more processors (205), presence of the SPOF (404) pertaining to the identified one or more deviations in at least one network layer in the fiber networks based on identifying one or more common segments in the fiber networks.

2. The method (500) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the step of, identifying, one or more deviations based on processing the mapped associated network layer with the corresponding trace data, includes the steps of:
checking, by the one or more processors (205), if transmission and reception trace data in relation to the fiber networks is present between at least two nodes of the plurality of nodes (125);
in response to detecting presence of the transmission and reception trace data between the at least two nodes of the plurality of nodes (125), checking, by the one or more processors (205), if the transmission and reception trace data between the two nodes do not overlap in entirety; and
inferring, by the one or more processors (205), presence of one or more deviations, in response to detecting based on checking that the retrieved transmission and reception trace data between the two nodes do not overlap in entirety.

3. The method (500) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the step of identifying, by the one or more processors (205), the one or more common segments in the fiber networks by:
analysing, by the one or more processors (205), the mapping related to the associated network layer of each node with the corresponding trace data of the plurality of nodes (125).

4. The method (500) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the step of, inferring, presence of the SPOF (404) in at least one network layer in the fiber networks based on identifying the one or more deviations, further includes the step of:
updating, by the one or more processors (205), a SPOF summary report of each network layer in a network operator defined format.

5. A system (120) for determining a Single Point Failure (SPOF) in fiber networks, the system (120) comprising:
a transceiver (220), configured to, receive, data pertaining to a list of a plurality of nodes (125);
a segregating unit (225), configured to, segregate, each of the plurality of nodes (125) from the list based on an associated network layer;
a retrieving unit (230), configured to, retrieve, trace data of each fiber emerging from each node segregated from the list;
a mapping unit (235), configured to, map, the associated network layer of each node with the corresponding trace data;
an identifying unit (240), configured to, identify, one or more deviations based on processing the mapped associated network layer with the corresponding trace data; and
an inferring unit (245), configured to, infer, presence of the SPOF (404) pertaining to the identified one or more deviations in at least one network layer in the fiber networks based on identifying one or more common segments in the fiber networks.

6. The system (120) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the identifying unit (240), configured to identify, the one or more deviations based on processing the mapped associated network layer with the corresponding trace data, by:
check, if transmission and reception trace data in relation to the fiber networks is present between at least two nodes of the plurality of nodes (125);
in response to detecting presence of the transmission and reception trace data between the at least two nodes of the plurality of nodes (125), check, if the transmission and reception trace data between the two nodes do not overlap in entirety; and
infer, presence of one or more deviations, in response to detecting based on checking that the retrieved transmission and reception trace data between the two nodes do not overlap in entirety.

7. The system (120) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the identifying unit (240) configured to identify the one or more common segments in the fiber networks by:
analyse, the mapping related to the associated network layer of each node with the corresponding trace data of the plurality of nodes (125).

8. The system (120) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inferring unit (245), configured to infer presence of the SPOF (404) in at least one network layer in the fiber networks based on identifying the one or more deviations, further includes to:
update, a SPOF summary report of each network layer in the network operator defined format.

9. A network operator equipment (110), comprising:
one or more primary processors (305) communicatively coupled to one or more processors (205), the one or more primary processors (305) coupled with a memory (310), wherein said memory (310) stores instructions which when executed by the one or more primary processors (305) causes the network operator equipment (110) to:
transmit, data pertaining to a list of a plurality of nodes (125) to the one or more processors (205);
wherein the one or more processors (205) is configured to perform the steps as claimed in claim 1.