Patent ID: 6600744
Filing Date: 2003-07-29
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
A packet classification engine comprising:a memory, wherein the memory stores a plurality of rules, wherein each rule of the plurality of rules defines a region in an N-dimensional space, wherein the memory is operably coupled to receive rule selection signals, wherein a first set of rule selection signals selects a selected set of rules of the plurality of rules, wherein the selected set of rules includes at least one rule; a comparison block operably coupled to the memory, wherein the comparison block is operably coupled to receive a key, wherein the key defines a point within the N-dimensional space, wherein the comparison block compares the key to the selected set of rules, wherein when the comparison block determines a favorable comparison between the key and a matching rule within the selected set of rules, the comparison block generates an indication of the favorable comparison, wherein the favorable comparison indicates that the point defined by the key is within the region defined by the matching rule; and a prioritization block operably coupled to the comparison block, wherein the prioritization block receives indications of favorable comparisons and determines a preferred favorable comparison from the indications, wherein the preferred favorable comparison determines a preferred rule of the plurality of rules.