Patent ID: 7532630
Filing Date: 2009-05-12
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
1. A network for providing multi-service generalized Layer-2 Virtual Private Network (VPN) services, said network comprising: a set of elements interconnected by services; at least one first subset of said elements defining a private network; at least one second subset of elements different from said first subset defining a provider network wherein at least two subgroups of said first subset of elements may be connected via said provider network; a provisioning mechanism used to define element membership in said first subset of elements; and a signalling mechanism used to create connectivity between elements within said first subset of elements, said connectivity created across said second subset of elements, and said connectivity at a layer selected from one or both of the group consisting of Layer-2 and Layer-1, said signalling mechanism having a multi-service tunnel selector mechanism used to create said connectivity.