Multiplexing system that supports a geographically distributed subnet

Abstract

A switch encapsulates incoming information using a header, and removes the header upon egress. The header is used by both distributed ingress nodes and within a distributed core to facilitate switching. The ingress and egress elements preferably support Ethernet or other protocol providing connectionless media with a stateful connection. Preferred switches include management protocols for discovering which elements are connected, for constructing appropriate connection tables, for designating a master element, and for resolving failures and off-line conditions among the switches. Secure data protocol (SDP), port to port (PTP) protocol, and active/active protection service (AAPS) are all preferably implemented. Systems and methods contemplated herein can advantageously use Strict Ring Topology (SRT), and conf configure the topology automatically. Components of a distributed switching fabric can be geographically separated by at least one kilometer, and in some cases by over 150 kilometers.

1 - 34 . (canceled)  
     
     
         35 . A multiplexing system comprising a communication network that supports a geographically distributed subnet.  
     
     
         36 . The network of  claim 35  wherein the different geographically distributed portions of the subnet are communicatively separated by a WAN.  
     
     
         37 . The network of  claim 36  further comprising a router elements located at each of the different geographically distributed portions of the subnet.  
     
     
         38 . The network of  claim 37  wherein each of the router elements automatically discover each other.  
     
     
         39 . The network of  claim 37  wherein each of the router elements cooperate to act as a single router.  
     
     
         40 . The network of  claim 35  wherein the different geographically distributed portions of the subnet are separated by at least one 150 kilometer.  
     
     
         41 . The network of  claim 35  wherein the different geographically distributed portions of the subnet are separated by at least 150 kilometers.