Abstract: A selection resource executed within the network is configured for selecting from among a plurality of servers, distributed throughout the network at respective network-based server locations and each configured for providing a specified service, a selected server for providing the specified service for a client device at a network-based client location. The selection resource selects the selected server based on the corresponding server location relative to the client location, and causes a request having been generated by the client device to be sent to the selected server. Hence, the selection resource optimizes client-server interactions in a distributed computing network, based on the client location and the server location.

Abstract: The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for location based messaging. A user at one computer system selects at least on other computer system that is to receive an electronic message. The at least one other computer system is selected based on the location of the at least one other computer system, without having to know an electronic identifier of any users at the at least one other computer system. The computer system refers to a mapping that maps computer systems locations to corresponding electronic addresses. Messages can then be sent to the electronic addresses. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention facilitate at least semi-anonymous electronic communication in a network computing environment and significantly mitigate the perceived need of an immediate response that is often associated with responding to (potentially in person) verbal communication.

Abstract: A method and system for automatic allocation of port addresses in a network is provided. The node performs a self-discovery after initial power-up, and for each port on the node, using unique values associated with the port in the network hierarchy, applies a function that allows for an inverse function to the set of values to generate a default unique address for the port. A typical hierarchical structure in a network is the network area, node, and, within the node, the shelf, the card and the port. Next, the node sends a frame including the default port address and node identifier, from the port to a connected node. The node polls the port for a frame with network information associated with the connected port on the other node.

Abstract: A technique efficiently correlates information pertaining to entities of a mixed Advanced Peer to Peer Networking (APPN) and Data Link Switching (DLSW) computer network. The entities comprise System Network Architecture (SNA) host mainframe (“host”) and physical unit (PU) entities, along with DLSw and APPN/DLSw devices. The technique involves identifying a SNA session path as using Dependent Logical Unit Requester (DLUR) services of the APPN/DLSw device and thereafter obtaining media access control (MAC)/service access point (SAP) information needed to correlate the SNA session to the DLSw peer devices. The inventive technique then proceeds to efficiently correlate information relating to the DLUR and PU with information relating to the devices to draw the mixed network topology needed to assist in problem isolation.