Abstract: Fast response detection of repeatedly transmitted redundant digital codewords is provided by checking the same bit-position in consecutive n bit codewords. The number m of codewords checked is increased until the number of equal bit values reaches a varying threshold j.sub.m dependent upon m, or until m reaches a maximum M. This sequence is repeated for each of the remaining bit-positions of the codeword. Faster response is provided when an early threshold is reached, eliminating the need to continue checking the same bit-position in the remainder of the M codewords.

Abstract: Detection of repeatedly transmitted redundant digital codewords is provided by checking corresponding bi-positions for consecutive n bit codewords, counting the number of ones and zeros for each bit-position. When there is at least a preselected threshold J.sub.M of equal bit values for each of the n bit-positions of the codewords, in M or less consecutive codewords, the detection process is complete.

Abstract: A distributed digital data communication network having widely dispursed nodes provides for effective transmission of messages between each node through the use of flood routing. A response message based upon stored data link status obtained when a message is received through the flood routing protocol selects the shortest time delay path for responding to that message. This process eliminates network instability.