Importance

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Abstract

A method and related apparatus for establishing a point-to-point cross-link between two bridges in a bridged communication network. The bridged communication network is first configured in a loop-free arrangement by a spanning tree algorithm that selects which links of every bridge to activate in order to form the spanning tree active configuration. Then at least one cross-link not defined by the spanning tree configuration is established for routing of messages as an alternative to a spanning tree path. A protocol in each bridge ensures that no loops are formed and that only messages to preselected locations are passed over the cross-link. An optional optimization procedure measures message propagation times in both directions between the two bridges and over both the cross-link path and the spanning tree path, to determine whether to modify usage of the cross-link. Selection of the bridges for the formation of the cross-link, and selection of the destination stations for cross-link traffic, are independent of the location of a root bridge in the spanning tree configuration.

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First Claim