Patent ID: 7606939
Filing Date: 2009-10-20
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
1. A method for extending Private Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) across a computer network, the method comprising the steps of: organizing selected portions of the computer network into separate administrative groups, each administrative group containing one or more intermediate network devices; using an Interconnect Fabric to couple the two or more administrative groups; establishing a Private VLAN within the computer network by selecting, within each administrative group, a Provider Equipment Virtual Local Area Network (PE-VLAN) Identifier (ID) for a Primary VLAN, whereby the PE-VLAN ID selected within each administrative group differ; and assigning a first Virtual Circuit Identifier (ID) to the Primary VLAN by mapping the differing PE-VLAN IDs in each administrative groups to the same first Virtual Circuit ID, the Virtual Circuit ID for inclusion in an encapsulation header appended to network messages associated with the Primary VLAN prior to sending the network messages into the Interconnect Fabric.