Patent ID: 6577327
Filing Date: 2003-06-10
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
A processor-implemented method for building a sub-network within a main network, comprising the steps of:(a) maintaining current configuration information on the main network; (b) receiving a set of high-level requirements to be met by the sub-network; (c) translating said set of high-level requirements into a corresponding set of low-level requirements; (d) in response to user input, generating at least one option, each option corresponding to a detailed technical specification for configuring the main network such that the set of low-level requirements is met; (e) providing a first graphical selection mechanism for allowing the user to select an option; (f) in response to the user selecting an option through the first graphical selection mechanism, converting the detailed technical specification corresponding to the selected option into a set of graphical elements; (g) displaying said set of graphical elements as a logical view of the main network configured in accordance with the selected option; (h) causing resources in the main network to be automatically provisioned to meet said set of high-level requirements.