Use of test packets by packet switches in computer networks
US8885493B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 26, 2012 |
| Grant date | Nov 11, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 26, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L41/145
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A packet switch receives a management packet sent for discovery on a data flow's path through a network. The switch creates a test packet (310T) which looks like a packet belonging to the data flow of interest. The test packet is processed by the switch like the data flow of interest except that the test packet is not necessarily transmitted. The processing results may include the egress ports for the test packet, and if the ports are part of a LAG or ECMP group, the results provide the group and the group members associated with the egress ports. Firewall actions and other information can be included. The switch may forward the results to the originator of the management packet. The switch may insert the results into the management packet and forward the management packet on the ports determined as egress ports for the test packet. Other features are also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.