Understanding PTX EVO Commit Check Error: Next-Header Port Match without Payload-Protocol Match Not Supported

The PTX EVO series is a highly advanced and scalable routing platform designed for high-performance networks. However, users may encounter a commit check error when configuring the device, specifically the “next-header port match without payload-protocol match not supported” error. In this article, we will delve into the details of this error, its causes, and possible solutions.

What is PTX EVO?

The PTX EVO series is a family of high-performance routing platforms designed for service provider and enterprise networks. These platforms are built to provide high-density 100GbE and 400GbE interfaces, making them ideal for applications that require high-bandwidth and low-latency connectivity. The PTX EVO series is also designed to support advanced routing protocols and features, including MPLS, VPNs, and traffic engineering.

Understanding the Commit Check Error

The commit check error “next-header port match without payload-protocol match not supported” occurs when the device is configured to perform a next-header port match without a corresponding payload-protocol match. This error is typically encountered when configuring firewall filters or access control lists (ACLs) on the device.

To understand this error, let’s break down the concepts involved:

• Next-Header Port Match: This refers to the process of matching traffic based on the next-header field in the IP packet header. The next-header field indicates the type of payload being carried in the packet.
• Payload-Protocol Match: This refers to the process of matching traffic based on the payload protocol being carried in the packet. Payload protocols include TCP, UDP, ICMP, and others.

When a next-header port match is configured without a corresponding payload-protocol match, the device is unable to determine the type of payload being carried in the packet. This can lead to incorrect filtering or forwarding of traffic, which can have security implications.

Causes of the Commit Check Error

The commit check error “next-header port match without payload-protocol match not supported” can occur due to several reasons, including:

• Incorrect Configuration: The most common cause of this error is incorrect configuration of firewall filters or ACLs. When configuring next-header port matches, it is essential to ensure that a corresponding payload-protocol match is also configured.
• Unsupported Features: Some features or protocols may not be supported on the PTX EVO platform, which can lead to this error. It is essential to check the device documentation and release notes to ensure that the configured features are supported.
• Software Bugs: In some cases, software bugs or defects can cause this error. It is essential to ensure that the device is running the latest software version and to check for any known bugs or issues.

Solving the Commit Check Error

To solve the commit check error “next-header port match without payload-protocol match not supported,” follow these steps:

• Verify Configuration: Verify that the next-header port match is configured correctly and that a corresponding payload-protocol match is also configured.
• Check Device Documentation: Check the device documentation and release notes to ensure that the configured features are supported on the PTX EVO platform.
• Upgrade Software: Ensure that the device is running the latest software version and check for any known bugs or issues.
• Reconfigure Firewall Filters or ACLs: Reconfigure the firewall filters or ACLs to ensure that next-header port matches are configured correctly and that corresponding payload-protocol matches are also configured.

Best Practices for Configuring Firewall Filters and ACLs

To avoid the commit check error “next-header port match without payload-protocol match not supported,” follow these best practices when configuring firewall filters and ACLs:

• Use Specific Matches: Use specific matches whenever possible, such as matching on specific IP addresses, ports, or protocols.
• Use Payload-Protocol Matches: Always use payload-protocol matches when configuring next-header port matches.
• Verify Configuration: Verify the configuration before committing it to ensure that it is correct and complete.
• Test Configuration: Test the configuration to ensure that it is working as expected.

Conclusion

The commit check error “next-header port match without payload-protocol match not supported” can occur when configuring firewall filters or ACLs on the PTX EVO platform. This error is typically caused by incorrect configuration, unsupported features, or software bugs. To solve this error, verify the configuration, check device documentation, upgrade software, and reconfigure firewall filters or ACLs as needed. By following best practices for configuring firewall filters and ACLs, you can avoid this error and ensure that your network is secure and functioning correctly.