Patent Publication Number: US-2022217605-A1

Title: Method and apparatus for enabling offloading network traffic via a connected cellular device

Description:
PRIORITY 
     This application claims the benefit of priority based upon the PCT Application Ser. No. PCT/US2019/053439, filed on Sep. 27, 2019, entitled “Method and Apparatus for Enabling Offloading Network Traffic via A Connected Cellular Device”, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated into the present application by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention relates to communication networks. More specifically, the disclosed embodiment(s) of the present application relates to offloading network traffic between various network communication channels. 
     BACKGROUND 
     With increasing popularity of electronic devices, such as computers, smart phones, mobile devices, server farms, mainframe computers, and the like, the demand for more and faster digital information is constantly growing. To handle and facilitate voluminous digital data between end users and content providers, high-speed and high-capacity computer networks are typically used. A conventional approach to provide a high-speed and high-capacity computer network is to use a sophisticated telecom infrastructure such as multiple hardware physical channels and additional network devices to increase transmission bandwidth. A drawback, however, for a traditional method of secondary line is that building a physical cable, line, and/or connection requires additional resources which can often be difficult and expensive. Embodiments of the present invention address the foregoing and/or problems in the prior art. 
     SUMMARY 
     Some embodiments disclose a process of enhancing network performance by establishing one or more alternative communication channels using overlay networks and wireless client(s) for network routing. For example, a network routing element, such as a home unit or modem, maintains a primary link and a secondary link for facilitating network communication between various attached devices and remote content providers. The network routing element is able to identify a cellular and wireless capable (“CWC”) device (e.g., a smart phone or a cellular phone) containing a hybrid module capable of facilitating a hybrid function of being a wireless client. The hybrid function, for example, is able to activate a secondary link via an overlay channel between a cellular transceiver of the CWC device and a wireless transceiver of the CWC device. Upon establishing a secondary link, the network traffic can be transmitted or offloaded between the primary link and the secondary link based on a variety of criteria such as the type of traffic as well as condition of the network. 
     Additional features and benefits of the exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description, figures and claims set forth below. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention will be understood more fully from the detailed description given below and from the accompanying drawings of various embodiments of the invention, which, however, should not be taken to limit the invention to the specific embodiments, but are for explanation and understanding only. 
         FIGS. 1A-1B  are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary system containing alternative links using one or more overlay networks in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 2A-2B  are block diagrams illustrating a process of establishing an alternative link using a cellular device as a wireless client in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  is a block diagram illustrating a cellular device containing a hybrid module capable of being configured as a wireless client in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 4-5  are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary process of creating a secondary link using an overlay network via a cellular device in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 6-7  are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary process of returning network traffic via alternative links in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 8-9  are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary process of forwarding network traffic via alternative links in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 10  is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process of establishing an alternative link using a cellular device as a wireless client in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 11  is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary computer system, host machine, router, home unit, node, or base station capable of providing and facilitating an overlay network in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention is described herein in the context of a method, device, and apparatus for providing network communication using alternative transmission channels via one or more overlay networks. 
     Those of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the following detailed description of the exemplary embodiment(s) is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other embodiments will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having the benefit of this disclosure. Reference will now be made in detail to implementations of the exemplary embodiment(s) as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The same reference indicators will be used throughout the drawings and the following detailed description to refer to the same or like parts. 
     In the interest of clarity, not all of the routine features of the implementations described herein are shown and described. It will, of course, be understood that in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions may be made in order to achieve the developer&#39;s specific goals, such as compliance with application- and business-related constraints, and that these specific goals will vary from one implementation to another and from one developer to another. Moreover, it will be understood that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of engineering for those of ordinary skills in the art having the benefit of embodiment(s) of this disclosure. 
     Various embodiments of the present invention illustrated in the drawings may not be drawn to scale. Rather, the dimensions of the various features may be expanded or reduced for clarity. In addition, some of the drawings may be simplified for clarity. Thus, the drawings may not depict all of the components of a given apparatus (e.g., device) or method. 
     Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiment(s) belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and this exemplary embodiment(s) of the disclosure. 
     As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprise” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. 
     The term “system” is used generically herein to describe any number of components, elements, sub-systems, devices, packet switch elements, packet switches, access switches, routers, networks, computer and/or communication devices or mechanisms, or combinations of components thereof. The term “computer” includes a processor, memory, and buses capable of executing instruction wherein the computer refers to one or a cluster of computers, personal computers, workstations, mainframes, or combinations of computers thereof. 
     The following exemplary terms may be used to refer to a network for the illustrative purposes. The terms, however, should not be taken to limit the invention to any one or more embodiments, but are for explanation and understanding only relating to a network. IP communication network, IP network, or communication network, for example, can mean any type of network having an access network able to transmit data in the form of packets or cells, such as ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) type, on a transport medium, for example, the TCP/IP or UDP/IP type. ATM cells, for instance, are the result of decomposition (or segmentation) of packets of data, IP type, and those packets (here IP packets) comprise an IP header, a header specific to the transport medium (for example UDP or TCP) and payload data. The IP network may also include a satellite network, a DVB-RCS (Digital Video Broadcasting-Return Channel System) network, providing Internet access via satellite, or an SDMB (Satellite Digital Multimedia Broadcast) network, a terrestrial network, a cable (xDSL) network or a mobile or cellular network (GPRS/EDGE, or UMTS (where applicable of the MBMS (Multimedia Broadcast/Multicast Services) type, or the evolution of the UMTS known as LTE (Long Term Evolution), 5G, or DVB-H (Digital Video Broadcasting-Handhelds)), or a hybrid (satellite and terrestrial) network. 
     Some embodiments of the presently invention disclose a process of enhancing network performance by establishing one or more alternative communication channels using overlay networks and wireless client(s) for network routing. For example, a network routing element, such as a home unit or modem, maintains a primary link and a secondary link for facilitating network communication between various attached devices and remote content providers. The network routing element is able to identify a cellular and wireless capable (“CWC”) device (e.g., a smart phone or a cellular phone) containing a hybrid module capable of facilitating a hybrid function of being a wireless client. The hybrid function, for example, is able to activate a secondary link via an overlay channel between a cellular transceiver of the CWC device and a wireless transceiver of the CWC device. Upon establishing a secondary link, the network traffic can be transmitted or offloaded between the primary link and the secondary link based on the type of traffic as well as condition of the network. 
       FIG. 1A  is a block diagram  100  illustrating an exemplary networking system containing alternative links using one or more overlay networks in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Diagram  100  includes a network routing device  110 , a core node  116 , a telecommunications network such as Internet  118 , two cellular and wireless capable (“CWC”) devices  106 - 108 . CWC devices  106 - 108 , in some embodiments, can be cellular phones, smart phones, portable phones, tablets, autonomous vehicles, cars, laptops, desktops, watches, and/or a combination of cellular phone, smart phone, portable phone, tablet, car, laptop, and/or desktop that has a cellular capability. In one aspect, network routing device  110  communicates with core node  116  via a primary link  120  and/or a secondary link  130  via a wireless client. It should be noted that the underlying concept of the exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention would not change if one or more blocks (or devices) were added to or removed from diagram  100 . 
     A cellular network, also known as a mobile network, is a communications network including wired and/or wireless communication network(s). For example, the last link of a cellular network usually is wireless connection via various cell towers and/or base stations. The cellular network generates, broadcasts, or distributes radio signals across a designated geographic area wherein the geographic area is generally divided into cells. Each cell of a cellular network serves one or more transceivers. It should be noted that a cell may use a different set of frequencies from neighboring cells for minimizing noise and/or cross interferences. 
     Wi-Fi is a wireless technology using radio wavelengths facilitating signal transmission within the wireless local area networking (WLAN) environment which is standardized in accordance with the IEEE 802.11 standards. A Wi-Fi client is a device connected to a Wi-Fi (wireless) network wherein the client is capable of transmitting and receiving wireless data or network traffic. A node is generally an actual physical computer, server, or a cluster of computers and/or servers capable of processing and distributing network traffics. 
     A function of the network system is to provide one or more alternative communication links, connections, or channels for facilitating network communication. The system includes primary link  120  and secondary link  130  wherein secondary link  130  is facilitated by CWC device or cellular device  108 . In one example, CWC device  108  can be a cellular phone, smart phone, portable phone, tablet, car, laptop, and/or desktop that has a cellular capability. To simplify forgoing discussion, the terms “CWC device,” “cellular device,” “cellular phone,” “smart phone,” and “portable phone” are referring to the same or similar devices and they can be used interchangeably. 
     Primary link  120  includes a primary link switch or switch  112  and core node  116 . In one aspect, one end of primary link is coupled to network routing device  110  or a home unit while the second end of primary link  120  is coupled to core node  116 . Primary link switch  112  manages and facilitates network communication between a primary link interface of a network device such as network routing device  110  and a node such as core node  116 . In some embodiments, primary link  120  includes a satellite-based communication network and/or a landline-based network. Thus, for example, primary link  120  can comprise one or more satellites and/or terrestrial components. Core node  116  includes a communication network overlay module or hybrid module operable to facilitate the secondary link. 
     Network routing device  110 , in some embodiments, is a router, switch, hub, home unit, set-top box, gaming console, and/or modem that contains a routing controller and an overlay module. The routing controller, not shown in  FIG. 1A , manages and/or routes network traffic through network routing device  110 . For example, the routing controller is able to provide load balance between the links such as between primary link  120  and secondary link  130 . The overlay module, not shown in  FIG. 1A , is capable of facilitating and maintaining additional link(s) including facilitating to setup connections between network device  110  and the wireless transceiver of smart phone  108 . In one aspect, the routing controller facilitates offloading network traffic from primary link  120  to secondary link  130  based on criteria such as the nature of the data, application, as well as network conditions. 
     CWC device or smart phone  106  or  108  can be a cellular phone, wireless phone, iPhone, portable phone, laptop computer, tablet, set-top box or the like. It should be noted that CWC device or smart phone  106  or  108  is capable of handling both cellular communication as well as wireless communication. In one aspect, a function of CWC device  108  which includes a wireless transceiver, cellular transceiver, and hybrid module is to act as a wireless client. For example, a wireless client is a WiFi client. 
     Secondary link  130  includes a wireless connection  132 , smart phone  108 , cellular connection  136 , and network connection  138 . In one aspect, smart phone  108  is able to facilitate establishing a secondary link including a connection or overlay connection between the wireless transceiver and the cellular transceiver of the smart phone for data transmission between wireless connection  132  and cellular connection  136 . In some embodiments, secondary link  130  includes one or more overlay networks via cell towers for data transmission. It should be noted that secondary link  136  may include wireless as well as landline connections. Primary link  120  and secondary link  130  are coupled to Internet  118 . In one exemplary embodiment, wireless connection  132  is a WiFi connection and wireless transceiver is a WiFi transceiver. 
     A function of cellular device  108  which connects to network device  110  via Wi-Fi  132  is to setup an overlay network (not shown in  FIG. 1A ) between wireless connection  132  and cellular connection  136  for network traffic offloading between the primary link and the secondary link. An advantage of using an overlay network is that the cellular device is used as a Wi-Fi client for offloading network traffic. 
       FIG. 1B  is a block diagram  102  illustrating a network system containing multiple alternative links using overlay networks in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Diagram  102  includes network routing device  110 , core node  116 , Internet  118 , three cellular devices  104 - 108 . In one aspect, network routing device  110  communicates with core node  116  via a primary link  120  and/or an alternative links such as secondary link  130  via a wireless client. It should be noted that the underlying concept of the exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention would not change if one or more blocks (or devices) were added to or removed from diagram  102 . 
     Diagram  102  is similar to diagram  100  shown in  FIG. 1A  except that diagram  102  illustrates a third link  140  using cellular device  104  as a wireless client. For instance, third link  140  capable of transmitting information includes a wireless connection  142  and a cellular connection  146  via an overlay channel inside of cellular device  104 . 
     An advantage of establishing multiple links via multiple cellular devices is to increase flexibility of transmission bandwidth via multiple overlay networks. 
       FIG. 2A  is a block diagram  200  illustrating a process of monitoring and detecting a potential wireless client for an alternative link in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Diagram  200  includes routing device  110 , core node  116 , Internet  118 , cellular devices  106  and  208 . In one aspect, routing device  110  communicates with core node  116  via a primary link  120 . It should be noted that the underlying concept of the exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention would not change if one or more blocks (or devices) were added to or removed from diagram  200 . 
     Diagram  200  is similar to diagram  100  shown in  FIG. 1A  except that diagram  200  illustrates a scenario before a secondary link is established or built. In some embodiments, routing device  110  includes a hybrid module or hybrid application (“App”) configured to monitor and detect nearby potential candidates for wireless clients. For example, routing device  110  monitors and/or detects a wireless client candidate as cellular device  208  entering the vicinity of routing device  110 . Upon detecting cellular device  208  which contains a hybrid module capable of being a wireless client, routing device  110  identifies and verifies physical or potential connections  232 - 236  as well as Internet  118  for potentially establishing an alternative link for handling network traffic. It should be noted that vicinity of routing device  110  refers to a geographic area surrounding routing device  110  that has the wireless coverage from routing device  110 . 
     Depending on the applications, routing device  110 , in some embodiments, is continuously monitoring and identifying potential wireless clients within the vicinity of routing device  110  for alternative links. It should be noted that wireless clients such as cellular phones can move in and out of the nearby or vicinity area of routing device  110  continuously. To maintain a scenario of multiple links within a network system, links or channels for network communication are continuously established as well as torn down. 
     A function of the hybrid module is to automatically detect cellular devices connecting to a known network. In one aspect, a detection of a potential wireless client can trigger a process of setting up an alternative or secondary link using overlay network(s) with minimal user involvement. 
     An advantage of using a wireless client is that multiple number of cellular devices or phones can be in and out of the vicinity area or zone all the time. Links are constantly terminated as well as created. 
       FIG. 2B  is a block diagram  202  illustrating a process of establishing an alternative link using a cellular device as a wireless client in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Diagram  202  includes a routing device  110 , core node  116 , Internet  118 , cellular devices  106  and  208 . In one aspect, routing device  110  communicates with core node  116  via a primary link  120  and/or a secondary link  130  via a wireless client. It should be noted that the underlying concept of the exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention would not change if one or more blocks (or devices) were added to or removed from diagram  200 . 
     Diagram  202  is similar to diagram  200  shown in  FIG. 2A  except that diagram  202  illustrates a scenario that follows the scenario presented in diagram  200 . After identifying cellular phone  208  is a wireless client candidate as shown in diagram  200  in  FIG. 2A , a new link or secondary link  230  is established using an overlay network via wireless link  232 , cellular phone  208  as the wireless client, cellular link  236 , and Internet  118 . Secondary link  230  can be used to offload network traffics from primary link  120 . 
       FIG. 3  is a block diagram  300  illustrating a cellular device  302  containing a hybrid module  308  capable of configuring the cellular device as a wireless client in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Diagram  300  includes a wireless interface or transceiver  304  (e.g., a WiFi transceiver), hybrid module  308 , and cellular interface or transceiver  306 . In one aspect, wireless interface  304  and cellular interface  306  are coupled to hybrid module  308  using buses  322 - 324 . It should be noted that the underlying concept of the exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention would not change if one or more blocks (or devices) were added to or removed from diagram  300 . 
     Wireless interface  304  is a wireless transceiver capable of transmitting or receiving wireless data to or from a wireless network. Cellular interface  306  is a cellular transceiver capable of transmitting or receiving cellular data to or from a cellular network. A function of hybrid module  308  is to facilitate seamless data transfer between wireless interface  304  and cellular interface  306 . 
     Hybrid module  308 , in some embodiments, includes a buffer  310 , converter  312 , controller  316 , synchronizer  318 , and client setting  320 . Buffer  310  is used for buffering data between wireless transceiver and cellular transceiver. In some embodiments, converter  312  may be used to convert data packets and/or protocols (e.g., between wireless data and cellular data). Controller  316  manages various hybrid functions, such as potential wireless client detection or monitoring, establishing new link(s), tearing down existing link(s), buffer capacity, conversion sequence, transmission sequence, data characteristics, and the like. Synchronizer  318 , in some embodiments, is used to synchronize packets between the primary link and the second link. Client setting  320  is used to set up a new link based on the availability of wireless clients. 
     During an operation, a process of hybrid module capable of providing alternative communication channels establishes a wireless connection between an overlay module of a home unit and a wireless transceiver of a cellular phone. After setting the cellular phone as a wireless client and building a transmission tunnel between wireless transceiver  304  of cellular phone  302  and cellular transceiver  306  of cellular phone  302 , the network traffic can be transported via the transmission tunnel. Upon creating a cellular connection between cellular transceiver  306  of cellular phone  302  to a cell tower or base station, an overlay network is provided as part of a secondary link between the home unit and a core node. It should be noted that while maintaining the primary link, the network traffic can be offloaded between the primary link and the secondary link. 
     An advantage of having a secondary link using cellular network is to provide time sensitive data while the primary link is used to handle volume data such as movie and/or backup data. 
       FIG. 4  is a block diagram  400  illustrating an exemplary network system capable of creating a secondary link using an overlay network in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Diagram  400  includes a home unit  402 , cellular device  408 , core node  410 , Internet  118 , and cell tower  412 . Home unit  402 , which can be or comprise a modem, router, switch, and/or hub, includes a primary link interface  460 , HU routing control, home unit (“HU”) overlay module  466 , and local or wireless interface  430 . It should be noted that the underlying concept of the exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention would not change if one or more blocks (or devices) were added to or removed from diagram  400 . For example, although identified as the Internet, element  118  can comprise other or additional networks such as one or more private networks. 
     Cellular device  408 , which can be a wireless and cellular capable device, includes a hybrid app  450  able to communicate with local interface  430  via wireless connection  432  and cell tower  412  via a cell connection  434 . Cellular device  408  can be any type of cellular capable device such as a smart phone such as, but not limited to, iPhone®, Samsung Galaxy® phones, Android® phones, and the like. Cellular device  408  can alternatively be another type of cellular device such as a tablet, laptop computer, game console, or the like. Upon installing of hybrid app  450 , the cellular device  408  can be used as a wireless client. 
     In a cell operation, cellular device  408  is able to access information on the Internet  118  or other communications network via cell tower  412  through cell connection  434  and cell service provider  414 . In one example, cell service provider  414  facilities communication between cellular device  408  and Internet  118  via connections  436 - 438 . HU  402  which is coupled to multiple user devices  420 - 426  via local interface  430  is able to access information in content server  470  via the primary link and core node  410 . Although shown as WiFi connections, one or more of user devices  420 - 426  can be connected to the local interface  430  of the HU  402  by other types of connections including wired connections. Similarly, cellular device  408  can alternatively be connected to the local interface  430  by a WiFi connection (as shown in  FIGS. 5-9 ) or other types of connections including a wired connection. 
     In some embodiments, the core node  410  can be an internet service provider (ISP). Content server  470 , in one example, may include or host one or more content providers which, for example, provide film, video, audio, music, and/or any other online entertainment. Alternatively, the content provider may also be an online interactive gaming provider. In addition, the content provider may provide a real-time interactive conference call. As yet another example, content provider may host Web sites and thus provide Web pages. 
     Core node  410  includes a core node (“CN”) overlay module  468 , CN routing control, primary link interface  462 , and internet interface  464 . While Internet interface  464  is coupled to Internet  118  via connection  458 , CN  410  is also coupled to the primary link via connection  456  through primary link interface  462 . In one aspect, the primary link includes a satellite communication network  406 . In some embodiments, the primary link includes connection  452 , satellite communication network  406 , and connection  456 . A satellite link is merely an example, however, and primary link  406  can comprise other types of links such as a terrestrial link. It should be noted that hybrid app  450 , HU overlay module  466 , and CN overlay module  468  are working together to establishing alternative links for enhancing overall network performance. 
     Referring back to  FIG. 4 , the network system employs a core node  410 , which can provide a communications or other service (e.g, ISP) to home unit  402  via a primary link  406  (e.g., a satellite link). Multiple user devices (e.g., a laptop, smart TV, etc.)  420 - 426  are connected to home unit  402  via wireless connection(s). It should be noted that before establishing a secondary link, the initial link between home unit  402  and core node  410  is the primary link. The routing control at core node  410  and home unit  402  are configured to send all transmissions over the primary link and/or one or more other alternate links (not shown). A mobile cellar device  408  (e.g., a “smart phone”) with a cell plan that includes Internet service is moved into proximity of home unit  402 . 
       FIG. 5  is a block diagram  500  illustrating an exemplary process of creating a secondary link using an overlay network via a cellular device in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Diagram  500  includes home unit  402 , cellular device  408 , core node  410 , Internet  118 , and cell tower  412 . Diagram  500  is similar to diagram  400  shown in  FIG. 4  except that diagram  500  illustrates a secondary link  502  containing overlay network A and overlay network B. Secondary link  502  uses wireless, cellular, Internet connections to connect HU  402  with hybrid app  450  and CN  410 . It should be noted that the underlying concept of the exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention would not change if one or more blocks (or devices) were added to or removed from diagram  500 . 
     In operation, as cellular device  408  is brought into proximity or vicinity (e.g., by wireless connection and/or WiFi) to home unit  402 , cellular device  408  (e.g., app  450 ) sets up a first overlay (A) connection with home unit  402  and a second overlay (B) connection through cell service provider  414  to core node  410  as shown creating secondary link  502 . In one aspect, the overlay connections A and B form a secondary link  502  between home unit  402  and core node  410  which results in a hybrid network. 
     In some embodiments, the routing controllers in core node  410  and home unit  402  can be configured to route selectively network traffic over one of the primary link and the secondary link which is facilitated through the cellular device. It should be noted that the overlays can be VPN (virtual private network) connections or tunnels that operate in accordance with a protocol such as VxLAN (virtual extensible local-area network) or GRE (generic routing encapsulation). Notably, not only the cellular device  408  itself but any other user device (e.g., devices  420 - 426 ) connected to home unit  402  can utilize secondary link  502 . It is noted that the cellular device  408 , in addition to providing the secondary link  502  as discussed above, can function as a user device generally the same as another other user device (e.g., devices  420 - 426 ) connected to the HU  402 . 
       FIG. 6  is a block diagram  600  illustrating an exemplary process of routing network traffic via alternative links in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Diagram  600  includes home unit  402 , cellular device  408 , core node  410 , Internet  118 , and cell tower  412 . Diagram  600  is similar to diagram  500  shown in  FIG. 5  except that diagram  600  illustrates a process of return link network traffic from a device such as user equipment or device  422 . It should be noted that the underlying concept of the exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention would not change if one or more blocks (or devices) were added to or removed from diagram  600 . 
     In operation, when one of the user devices (e.g.,  422 ) has network traffic to send to a content server  470  or other entity on a network such as the Internet  118 , routing control in home unit  402  selects the primary link  406  or the secondary link  502 . For example, the routing control can match the type of network traffic to the characteristics of the primary link or the secondary link. If routing control selects the primary link  406 , it sends  606  the network traffic over the primary link  406  to the core node  410 . If routing control in home unit  402  selects the secondary link  502 , it sends  608  the network traffic over overlay A to the cellular device  408 , which then sends the network traffic over overly B to the core node  410 . As noted, overlay B can traverse multiple connections such as a cell connection of the cellular device  408  to a cell tower  412 , equipment of a cell service provider  414 , and or the Internet  118  or other communications networks. The following describes a non-limiting example of the foregoing. 
     In this example, user device  422  sends network traffic to a content server  470  on the Internet  118 . User device  422  provides data packets of the network traffic addressed to content server  470  through the local interface of the home unit  402 , where HU routing control determines whether to send the packets over the primary link  406  or the secondary link  502 . If HU routing control determines to send the data packets over the secondary link  502 , an HU overlay module in the HU  402  and the hybrid app on cellular device  408  can use tunneling or data encapsulation techniques to route the packets over overlay A and overlay B to core node  410 . 
     In some embodiments, multiple layers of overlays can be used. For example, the HU overlay module in HU  402  can effect an inner encapsulation of the packets for transport to the core node  410 , which effectively creates an inner overlay (not shown) from the HU  402  to the core node  410 . The HU overlay module can then effect a first outer encapsulation of the packets for transport over overlay A to the cellular device  408 , which can de-capsulate the first outer encapsulation. The cellular device  408  can then effect a second outer encapsulation of the packets for transport over overlay B to the core node  410 , which can de-capsulate the second outer and the inner encapsulations. The core node  410  can then forward the packets to their original destination, which in this example is content server  470 . 
       FIG. 7  is a block diagram  700  illustrating an exemplary process of routing network traffic via alternative links in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. The example illustrated in  FIG. 7  is similar to the example of  FIG. 6  except that the network traffic originates from the cellular device  408  as a user device rather than user device  422 . Diagram  700  includes home unit  402 , cellular device  408 , core node  410 , Internet  118 , and cell tower  412 . 
     As noted, the cellular device  408  can function as a user device. As with any of the user devices  420 - 426 , when cellular device  408  has network traffic to send to a content server  470  or other entity on a network such as the Internet  118 , routing control in home unit  402  selects the primary link  406  or the secondary link  502 . As noted above, routing control can match the type of network traffic to the characteristics of the primary link or the secondary link 
     In the example shown in  FIG. 7 , cellular device  408  sends network traffic to content server  470  on the Internet  118 . Cellular device  408  provides data packets of the network traffic addressed to content server  470  through the local interface of the home unit  402 , where HU routing control determines whether to send the packets over the primary link  406  or the secondary link  502 . If HU routing control selects the primary link  406 , it sends  706  the packets over the primary link  406  to the core node  410 . If HU routing control determines to send  708  the data packets over the secondary link  502 , the HU overlay module in the HU  402  and the hybrid app on cellular device  408  can use tunneling or data encapsulation techniques to route the packets over overlay A and overlay B to core node  410 , for example, in any manner described above. 
     For example, continuing with the example above of multiple overlays, the HU overlay module in the HU  402  can effect an inner encapsulation of the packets with the core node  410  as the destination of the inner encapsulation. As noted, this effectively creates an inner overlay (not shown) from the home unit  402  to the core node  410 . The HU overlay module can then effect a first outer encapsulation of the packets for transport over overlay A back to the cellular device  408 , which can de-capsulate the first outer encapsulation. The cellular device  408  can then effect a second outer encapsulation of the packets for transport over overlay B to the core node  410 , which can de-capsulate the second outer and the inner encapsulations. The core node  410  can then forward the packets to their original destination, which in this example is content server  470 . 
       FIG. 8  is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary process of routing network traffic originating from, e.g., the Internet  118 , and addressed to a user device (e.g., any of user devices  420 - 426  or cellular device  408 ) via alternative links in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Diagram  800  includes home unit  402 , cellular device  408 , core node  410 , Internet  118 , and cell tower  412 . Diagram  800  is similar to diagram  600  shown in  FIG. 6  except that diagram  800  illustrates a process of sending forward link network traffic originating from content server  470  to a user device such as devices  420 - 426  or the cellular device  408 . For example, if the network traffic  802  sent by content server  470  is time sensitive, CN routing control at core node  410  may select secondary link  502  assuming that secondary link  502  offers faster transmission speed than primary link  406 . It should be noted that time sensitive data may include data related to interactive video games, live conference calls, real-time control, and the like. Alternatively, the CN routing control at core node  410  selects primary link  406 . In some embodiments, primary link  406  is selected if the data sent by content server  470  is not time sensitive and the primary link  406  is generally slower than secondary link  502 . Regardless of whether the data was sent over the primary link  806  or the secondary link  808 , upon reaching the HU routing control of home unit  402 , the data is forwarded to the destination user device (user device  422  in the example illustrated in  FIG. 8 ) via wireless connection  810 . 
     In the example illustrated in  FIG. 8 , content server  470  sends  802  network traffic to user device  422 . Core node  410  receives from the content server  470  data packets of the traffic addressed to user device  422 . CN routing control in the core node  410  determines whether to send the packets over the primary link  406  or the secondary link  806 . If CN routing control selects the former, the packets are forwarded  806  across the primary link  406 . If CN routing control, however, selects the secondary link  502 , it sends  808  the traffic over overlay B to the cellular device  408 , which then sends the traffic over overlay A to the HU  402 . 
     Generally as discussed above, multiple layers of overlays can be used. For example, the CN overlay module in the core node  410  can effect an inner encapsulation of the packets of the traffic for transport to the home unit  402 . The CN overlay module can also effect a first outer encapsulation of the packets for transport over overlay B to the cellular device  408 , which can de-capsulate the first outer encapsulation. The cellular device  408  can then effect a second outer encapsulation of the packets for transport over overlay A to the home unit  402 , which can de-capsulate the second outer and the inner encapsulations. The home unit  402  can then forward the packets to their original destination, which in this example is user device  422 . 
       FIG. 9  is similar to the example of  FIG. 8  except that the network traffic is destined for the cellular device  408  as a user device rather than user device  422 . Diagram  900  includes home unit  402 , cellular device  408 , core node  410 , Internet  118 , and cell tower  412 . As shown, content server  470  originates network traffic destined for cellular device  408  as the user device. Upon receiving packets of the network traffic, CN routing control of core node  410  determines whether to send the packets over the primary link  406  the secondary link  502 . If CN routing control selects the primary link  406 , it sends  906  the packets over the primary link  406  to the home unit  402 . If, however, CN routing control selects the secondary link  502 , the traffic can be sent  908  over the secondary link  502  comprising overlay B and overlay A to the HU  402 . The HU  402  can then forward the traffic over the local interface to the destination user device, which in this case is the cellular device  408 . 
     Generally as discussed above with respect to  FIG. 8 , multiple layers of overlays can be used. For example, the CN overlay module in the core node  410  can effect an inner encapsulation of the packets for transport to the home unit  402 . This effectively creates an overlay (not shown) from the core node  410  to the home unit  402 . The CN overlay module can then also effect a first outer encapsulation of the packets for transport over overlay B to the cellular device  408 , which can de-capsulate the first outer encapsulation. The cellular device  408  can then effect a second outer encapsulation of the packets for transport over overlay A to the home unit  402 , which can de-capsulate the second outer and the inner encapsulations. The home unit  402  can then forward the packets to their original destination, which in this example is the cellular device  408  as a user device of home unit  402 . 
     In one aspect, a cellular device such as a smart phone is used to establish a secondary connection or link using multiple overlays or overlay networks. For example, the first overlay is established between home unit  402  and cellular device  408  while the second overlay is created between cellular device  408  and core node  410 . A function of cellular device  408  can be to be a “man-in-the-middle” as a wireless client. 
     An advantage of using a cellular device with a hybrid module is to configure the cellular device as part of secondary link  908  to enhance network performance. 
     Another advantage of using a hybrid module is that it automatically sets up and employs the secondary link in response to a cellular device connecting to the home unit. It should be noted that the secondary link can be taken down by the hybrid module(s) for channel reconfiguration when the cellular device such as cellular device  408  is disconnected from home unit  402 . For example, cellular device  408  moves out of wireless zone or coverage facilitated by local interface  430 . 
     Exemplary aspects of the present invention include various processing steps, which will be described below. The steps may be embodied in machine, router, or computer executable instructions. The instructions can be used to create a general purpose or special purpose system, which is programmed with the instructions, to perform the steps of the exemplary aspects of the present invention. Alternatively, the steps may be performed by specific hardware components that contain hard-wired logic for performing the steps, or by any combination of programmed computer components and custom hardware components. 
       FIG. 10  is a flowchart  1000  illustrating an exemplary process of establishing an alternative link using a cellular device as a wireless client in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. The process illustrated by flowchart  1000  can be performed on any of the systems illustrated in  FIGS. 1A-9 . 
     At block  1002 , a process capable of providing alternative communication channels for facilitating network communication maintains a primary link configured to facilitate network communication between attached devices and multiple content providers. For example, the network traffic is transported via a communications network containing a satellite communication network. Primary link  406  in  FIGS. 4-9  is a non-limiting example. Examples of ways in which block  1002  can be performed include any of the examples discussed above with respect to  FIGS. 4-9 . 
     At block  1004 , upon identifying a CWC device, a hybrid function of the CWC device is activated for providing an overlay channel between a cellular transceiver and a wireless transceiver of the CWC device. In one example, the process continuously monitors and surveys nearby cellular phones for potential wireless clients. After verifying the presence of a hybrid module in the cellular phone, the cellular device is configured to be a wireless client capable of establishing an overlay network or channel for facilitating a secondary link. 
     At block  1006 , the process is capable of establishing a secondary link utilizing an overlay network including the overlay channel For example, the process is able to create a wireless communication channel, overlay channel, cellular channel, and Internet as at least a portion of the secondary link. Secondary link  502  in  FIGS. 4-9  is a non-limiting example. Examples of ways in which block  1006  can be performed include any of the examples discussed above with respect to  FIGS. 4-9 . 
     At block  1008 , the network traffic can be offloaded between the primary link and the secondary link. In some embodiments, the network traffic is transmitted via the secondary link in accordance with characteristic of the network traffic. For example, an interactive video conference or video game is more time sensitive than a data backup or playing media such as a video from a provider such as YouTube®. In some embodiments, the cellular transceiver of the CDC device receives a data stream from a cellular connection and subsequently transmits the data stream to the network routing element via a wireless connection. The process is further capable of identifying a smart phone and activating a hybrid function of the smart phone for providing a second overlay channel between a cellular transceiver and a wireless transceiver of the smart phone. After establishing a new link utilizing overlay networks, the network traffic is offloaded from the primary link to the new link via the smart phone as a wireless client. Non-limiting examples of ways in which block  1008  can be performed include any of the examples illustrated and discussed above with respect to  FIGS. 6-9 . 
       FIG. 11  is a block diagram  1100  illustrating an exemplary computer system, host machine, router, home unit, node, or base station capable of providing and facilitating an overlay network in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. To simplify forgoing discussion, the term “system” is used to refer to terms as computer system, host, host machine, VM, NIC, switching module(s), and the like. System  1100 , for example, includes a processing unit  1101 , interface bus  1111 , and I/O unit  1120 . Processing unit  1101  includes a processor  1102 , main memory  1104 , system bus  1111 , static memory device  1106 , bus control unit  1105 , and overlay controller  1185  for facilitating overlay operations. It should be noted that the underlying concept of the exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention would not change if one or more blocks (circuit or elements) were added to or removed from diagram  1100 . 
     Bus  1111  is used to transmit information between various components and processor  1102  for data processing. Processor  1102  may be any one of a wide variety of general-purpose processors, embedded processors, or microprocessors, such as ARM® embedded processors, Intel® Core™ Duo, Core™ Quad, Xeon®, Pentium™ microprocessor, Motorola™ 68040, AMD® family processors, or Power PC™ microprocessor. A function of processor  1102  is able to execute instructions based on instruction sets stored in memory  1104 . 
     Main memory  1104 , which may include multiple levels of cache memories, stores frequently used data and instructions. Main memory  1104  may be RAM (random access memory), MRAM (magnetic RAM), or flash memory. Static memory  1106  may be a ROM (read-only memory), which is coupled to bus  1111 , for storing static information and/or instructions. Bus control unit  1105  is coupled to buses  1111 - 1112  and controls which component, such as main memory  1104  or processor  1102 , can use the bus. Bus control unit  1105  manages the communications between bus  1111  and bus  1112 . Mass storage memory  1106 , which may be a magnetic disk, optical disk, hard disk drive, floppy disk, CD-ROM, solid state drive (“SSD”), and/or flash memories, are used for storing large amounts of data. 
     I/O unit  1120 , in one example, includes a display  1121 , keyboard  1122 , cursor control device  1123 , and communication device  1125 . Display device  1121  may be a liquid crystal device, cathode ray tube (“CRT”), touch-screen display, or other suitable display device. Keyboard  1122  may be a conventional alphanumeric input device for communicating information between computer system  1100  and computer operator(s). Another type of user input device is cursor control device  1123 , such as a conventional mouse, touch mouse, trackball, or other type of cursor for communicating information between system  1100  and user(s). 
     Communication device  1125  is coupled to bus  1111  for accessing information from remote computers or servers through a wide-area communication network. Communication device  1125  may include a modem, network interface device, and/or other similar devices that facilitate communication between computer  1100  and external network or devices. 
     While particular embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be obvious to those of ordinary skills in the art that based upon the teachings herein, changes and modifications may be made without departing from this exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention and its broader aspects. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to encompass within their scope all such changes and modifications as are within the true spirit and scope of this exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention.