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Utilization of redundant links in bridged networks

  • US 5,150,360 A
  • Filed: 03/07/1990
  • Issued: 09/22/1992
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/07/1990
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. In a bridged communication network that has been pruned to form a loop-free spanning tree configuration having a root bridge, a method of exchanging messages between stations, through a point-to-point cross-link outside the spanning tree configuration, the method comprising the steps of:

  • identifying a cross-link between any two bridges in the network, wherein the cross-link exists outside the spanning tree configuration;

    selecting in at least one of the two bridges a set of destination stations for receipt of messages to be transmitted over the cross-link, the destination stations being selected without regard to their locations with respect to the root bridge in the spanning tree configuration;

    advising the other of the two bridges of the identities of the selected destination stations;

    examining each message received over the spanning tree at the other of the two bridges to determine if the intended destination of the message qualifies as one of the selected stations; and

    forwarding the message over the cross-link if the destination station in the message qualifies.

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