Abstract: A network switch, configured for performing layer 2 and layer 3 switching in an Ethernet (IEEE 802.3) network without blocking of incoming data packets, includes a network switch port having a filter (i.e., a packet classifier module) configured for evaluating an incoming data packet on an instantaneous basis. The network switch includes a processor interface for receiving a plurality of templates configured for simultaneous comparison of respective data formats in an incoming data packet. Each template is composed of a plurality of min terms, wherein each min term specifies a prescribed comparison operation within a selected data byte of the incoming data packet. The templates may be programmed by a user and stored in an internal min term memory. A min term controller controls the storage of the min terms in the min term memory by determining for each min term a corresponding relevance of the corresponding selected data byte in evaluation of the incoming data packet.

Abstract: When a connection passes through two communication networks that guarantee quality of service in different ways, an active packet is sent from one network to the other. Quality of service in the one network is mapped to quality of service in the other network by execution of a program included in the active packet, at the entry node of the other network. End-to-end quality of service is thereby guaranteed, unnecessary exchanges of quality-of-service information are avoided, and each network can modify its quality-of-service practices at its own convenience.