Patent ID: 8490161
Filing Date: 2013-07-16
Classification: H04L,H04Q

Abstract:
1. A method of provisioning Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) services in a network patching system the method comprising: receiving a request to provide a VLAN service to an individual communication channel in a network patching system, wherein the network patching system includes a patch panel having a plurality of connector ports that are connected to respective individual communication channels, a switch having a plurality of connector ports that are configured to provide access to one or more services, one or more patch cords that are each configured to selectively connect one of the patch panel connector ports and one of the switch connector ports such that a respective individual communication channel can access one or more services; determining whether a switch connector port connected to the individual communication channel via a patch cord is configured to provide the VLAN service; and initiating the VLAN service to the individual communication channel in response to determining that the switch connector port is configured to provide the VLAN service; wherein receiving the request to provide the VLAN service to an individual communication channel, determining whether a switch connector port connected to the individual communication channel via a patch cord is configured to provide the VLAN service, and initiating the VLAN service to the individual communication channel in response to determining that the switch connector port is configured to provide the VLAN service are performed by at least one processor, and wherein the at least one processor monitors changes that occur with respect to the one or more patch cords in the patching system over time.