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Abstract

An modified router provides for routing of data packets in heterogeneous networks and provides particular benefit to networks that comprise network elements transmitting predominately IP messages. These modified routers may, in some instances, run software implementing portions of the OSI routing protocol and software implementing the IP routing protocol simultaneously. Further, these modified routers provide for the exchange of routing information between software implementing these two protocols. This exchange of information enables a modified router to run both protocols with limited overhead. The modified routers may initially run only the IP routing protocol and only commence simultaneous use of the OSI routing protocols if, and when, the router receives an OSI trigger (e.g., an ES-IS Hello or IS-IS Hello). On receipt of an OSI trigger, the router may determine its nearest OSI neighbors using the IP routing table. Whenever there is a change in the IP routing table or, if desired, after a specified time out period, a router running the OSI routing protocol may re-determine its nearest neighbors or cease running the OSI routing protocol.

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First Claim