Abstract: The present disclosure details a system, apparatus and method for reducing the redundant handling of distributed network events. In one aspect, a proxy node is selected from a plurality of network nodes and an associated network management station (“NMS”) preferably addresses only the distributed events received from the proxy node. In an alternate embodiment, non-proxy nodes may be limited to reporting node-specific events to the NMS, resulting in a reduction of the number of distributed events received and processed by the NMS to those sent by the proxy node. The proxy node may be selected by the NMS or by the network nodes, in alternate implementations. Availability of the proxy node may be monitored and ensured by the network nodes or by the NMS. The selection of a proxy node is generally repeated upon the addition of nodes to the network or a lapse in proxy node availability.

Abstract: A method of linking at least two network switches is disclosed, wherein each network switch switches data traffic of a plurality of devices, through a plurality of couplings. The method comprises the steps of generating a data stream including an identifier to be sent from a first to a second network switch, generating a number identifying one of the couplings from the identifier, and using the identified coupling for transfer of the data stream.