Importance

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Abstract

A system and method for fault notification in a data communication network. In accordance with the invention, notification of each fault occurring in the network is quickly and efficiently propagated throughout the network. In response, appropriate action can be taken to recover from the fault. Possible points of failure are identified in the network. Indicia of each identified possible point of failure is formed. The indicia of the identified possible points of failure are propagated within the network. The indicia of the identified possible points of failure are stored in network nodes. Whether a fault has occurred in the network is determined. When a fault has occurred, a fault notification is propagated by at least one of the network nodes that detects the fault to its neighboring network nodes. Propagation of the fault notification may include sending the fault notification by a label switched packet. The label switched packet may have a fault information label (FIL) that distinguishes the fault notification from data traffic.

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First Claim