Patent ID: 7983169
Filing Date: 2011-07-19
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
1. A network device for processing data on a data network, comprising: multiple ports that are configured to receive data from a data network and to send data to the data network; a controller interface that is configured to communicate with an external controller; a memory management unit in communication with and configured to control external memory and that is configured to store data on and retrieve data from the external memory; a metering unit in communication with the ports, the controller interface and the memory management unit, and that is configured to monitor a flow of processed data to be sent to an egress port, wherein the metering unit is configured to be programmed by the external controller to enable the external controller to control the flow of the processed data; and wherein the metering unit is configured to mark data packets of the processed data according to color to police the flow of the processed data based on controller signals sent through the controller interface from the external controller.