Multiplex communications – Pathfinding or routing – Switching a message which includes an address header
Reexamination Certificate
1997-12-18
2001-01-30
Olms, Douglas W. (Department: 2732)
Multiplex communications
Pathfinding or routing
Switching a message which includes an address header
C370S389000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06181702
ABSTRACT:
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to network communications and more particularly, to capturing data conversations between stations/ports connected to the network.
BACKGROUND ART
In computer networks, a plurality of network stations are interconnected via a communications medium. For example, Ethernet is a commonly used local area network scheme in which multiple stations are connected to a single shared serial data path. These stations often communicate with a switch located between the shared data path and the stations connected to that path. Typically, the switch controls the communication of data packets on the network.
The network switch includes switching logic for receiving and forwarding frames to the appropriate destinations. When all of the stations connected to the network are simultaneously operating, packet traffic on the shared serial path can be heavy with little time between packets. In many prior art systems, the network switch does not have time to make data forwarding decisions as well as monitor data traffic on the network. Therefore, there is no way to monitor specific data conversations between particular stations or ports.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
There exists a need for a switching device that generates data forwarding decisions in a timely manner and monitors data conversations between stations/ports on the network.
There is also a need for a switching device that mirrors data conversations between designated ports/stations to a management device.
These and other needs are met by the present invention, where data received by the network switch is routed to an internal decision making engine that includes an address table that includes a traffic capture field. The internal decision making engine generates a forwarding port vector using the address table and identifies data conversations between designated stations/ports using the same table. Data conversations between the designated stations/ports are then mirrored to a management port.
According to one aspect of the invention, a network switch is configured for controlling the communication of data frames between stations. The switch includes a receive device that receives data frames from connected stations. The switch also includes an address table for storing address information including both source addresses and destination addresses. The switch further includes a control device that identifies a data frame being transmitted between designated stations.
Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for monitoring data traffic. The method includes receiving information from a data frame, the information including a source address and destination address. The method also includes identifying a data frame being transmitted between designated stations. The identified frame is then transmitted to a predetermined location,
Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the following detailed description. The embodiments shown and described provide illustration of the best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention. The invention is capable of modifications in various obvious respects, all without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.
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Advanced Micro Devices , Inc.
Olms Douglas W.
Vanderprye Kenneth
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