Patent ID: 8428056
Filing Date: 2013-04-23
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
1. A computer-implemented method comprising: calculating, by a computer device, a plurality of paths within a data packet network from a branch point to a merge point, wherein a combination of said plurality of paths meets predetermined configuration requirements; transmitting a copy of each packet received at said branch point along at least two of said plurality of paths; merging data received from said plurality of paths at said merge point into a single data stream, said merging including monitoring each of said plurality of paths for a predetermined interval for each packet, and forwarding only the first packet of said transmitted copies of said packet to arrive on any of said plurality of paths during said interval; varying a level of redundancy for selected connections; wherein said calculating, said transmitting, said merging, and said varying are done on a temporary, per-call basis for Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) data within said data packet network and wherein said calculating, said transmitting, said merging, and said varying are not done on other types of data within said data packet network; monitoring the status of at least one of said plurality of paths; determining when said at least one monitored path has experienced an outage; requesting a calculation of a substitute path meeting said predetermined configuration requirements; and using said substitute path for transmitting further copies of each packet from said branch point to said merge point.