Computer systems, in particular virtual private networks
US7000121B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 22, 2001 |
| Grant date | Feb 14, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 30, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L63/06
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A first node (client) (1) is in communication with one of a plurality of second nodes (5, 6, 7) connected to a local area network (LAN) (4) via a virtual private network including a link (3), such as the Internet, and a selected one of a plurality of third nodes (gateway servers) (21, 22, 23). Communication between the first node (1) and the third nodes (21, 22, 23) is encrypted, whereas communication between the third nodes and the second nodes (5, 6, 7) is unencrypted. Communication from the first node (1) to one of the second nodes (5, 6, 7) is initially set up via a selected one of the third nodes after suitable authentication. If that third node should subsequently fail, an alternative third node can be used. To detect the failure of a third node, the first node (1) sends a “heartbeat” packet (failure detection signal) to it. An operational third node responds with an answer, indicating that all is well. If no answer is received within a predetermined time interval, the first node sends another “heartbeat” packet. If there is still no answer, another third node is selected for use. This other third node can be one that was previously authenticated, or alternatively one that mu…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.