Abstract: A method of testing a primary device for two-way communication between the primary device and one or more other devices in communication therewith in a network. The method may include receiving a packet containing an originating device identifier at the primary device; adding a primary device identifier to the packet; transmitting the packet containing the originating device identifier and the primary device identifier from the primary device; and receiving a reply packet and detecting two-way communication if the reply packet contains the originating device identifier and the primary device identifier. A system for testing a primary device for two-way communication between the primary device and the other devices coupled to the primary device is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention uses a layer 2 switch (L2 switch), or bridge, to separate user's message traffic by use of Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) defined within the switch. Three new types of ports are defined, “promiscuous” ports “isolated” ports, and “community” ports. Three types of VLANs internal to the switch are defined, “primary” VLANs, “isolated” VLANs and “community” VLANs. The promiscuous ports are connected to layer 3 or layer 4 devices. Isolated ports and community ports are connected to individual user's servers, etc., and maintain traffic for each user separate from other users. The primary VLAN connects to all promiscuous ports, to all isolated ports, and to all community ports. The primary VLAN is a one way connection from promiscuous ports to isolated or community ports. An isolated VLAN connects to all promiscuous ports and to all isolated ports.