Loop prevention in virtual layer 2 networks
US11689455B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 4, 2021 |
| Grant date | Jun 27, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 4, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L49/70
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Techniques for loop prevention while allowing multipath in a virtual Layer 2 (L2) network are described. In an example, a network interface card (NIC) supports the virtual L2 network. The NIC is configured to receive, via a first port of the NIC, an L2 frame that includes a source media access control (MAC) address and a destination MAC address. Based on a loop prevention rule, the NIC transmits the L2 frame via its ports except the first port. In an additional example, the NIC is further configured to send an L2 frame to a host via the first port of the NIC. The L2 frame can be a bridge protocol data unit (BPDU). Upon receiving a BPDU from the host via the first port, the NIC determines that the BPDU is looped back and disables the first port.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.