Patent ID: 7227842
Filing Date: 2007-06-05
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
1. A packet classification method comprising: receiving a packet: matching, using a processor, a plurality of fields of the packet against N classification rules, the matching step including, for each field: determining a possible range of values associated with a field of the packet to be matched; identifying the possible range of values as a first rudimentary interval with associated endpoints; parsing a packet classifying rule to determine a matching range associated with the field; identifying upper and lower ends of the matching range; comparing the upper and lower ends of the matching range with the endpoints associated with the first rudimentary interval; creating up to two new rudimentary intervals based on a case result of the comparing step; associating adjusted endpoints with each of the first and up to two new rudimentary intervals in accordance with the case result and the upper and lower ends so as to facilitate packet classification based on the possible range of values of the packet field including the matching range; and preparing to forward the packet using the packet classifying rule.