Abstract: Data networks and nodes making up parts of data networks are arranged to derive information relating to the characterization of paths taken by data travelling between nodes in the networks. Path characterization information is fed back from a receiver of data to a provider of data, and informs nodes subsequently forwarding data of characteristics of the downstream path. Also described are routing and related controlling nodes and methods for using such path characterization information to make informed routing and other decisions when forwarding data in a data network.

Abstract: A data processing system method and software application program is provided for the efficient dissemination of information to multiple recipients over one or more communication channels in a communications network, for instance the multicast Internetwork. The method defines at least one primary data set for transmission over at least one primary communications channel in the network, where each primary data set includes data relating to at least one secondary data set associated therewith and provided for transmission over a secondary communications channel. The primary data set or sets are transmitted over primary communications channel(s) and at least one primary data set is modified in response to modifications to at least one secondary data set. The transmission step is repeated to provide potential recipient(s) of the primary data set or sets with an indication that at least one secondary data set has been modified independently of the recipient(s) receiving the modified secondary data set or sets.

Abstract: The invention relates to data networks, and to nodes making up parts of data networks, arranged to derive information relating to the characterisation of paths taken by data travelling between nodes in the networks. Path characterisation information is fed back from a receiver of data to a provider of data, and informs nodes subsequently forwarding data of characteristics of the downstream path. Also described are routing and related controlling nodes and methods for using such path characterisation information to make informed routing and other decisions when forwarding data in a data network.

Abstract: The invention provides a method, data processing system and software application program for the efficient dissemination of information to multiple recipients over one or more communication channels in a communications network, for instance the multicast Internetwork.