Patent ID: 8565115
Filing Date: 2013-10-22
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
1. A computer-implemented method comprising: maintaining, within a virtual network storage of a first component of a plurality of components coupled in communication with a network, information regarding a set of virtual networks into which the network has been logically divided and that can be used by the first component to transport packets through the network, wherein each virtual network of the set of virtual networks comprises a loop-free switching path, reverse path learning network and wherein each virtual network of the set of virtual networks provides a path through the network between the first component and a second component of the plurality of components thereby collectively providing a plurality of paths through the network between the first component and the second component; receiving, by the first component, a packet destined for the second component; on a packet-by-packet basis or on a per flow basis, dynamically selecting, by the first component, a particular path of the plurality of paths by selecting a virtual network of the set of virtual networks for transporting the received packet that tends to balance traffic load across the set of virtual networks; and causing, by the first component, the received packet to be transported through the network to the second component via the particular path.