Abstract: In one embodiment, a controller includes a processor and logic integrated with and/or executable by the processor, the logic being configured to receive a query from a network device for instruction regarding where to send network traffic, the query including a first cookie, determine whether the first cookie is legitimate, and send a message to the network device, the message including either: the first cookie in response to a determination that the first cookie is legitimate or a second cookie which indicates a second next hop device determined by the controller in response to a determination that the first cookie is not legitimate. Other systems, methods, and computer program products are described in more embodiments.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a controller includes a processor and logic integrated with and/or executable by the processor, the logic being configured to receive a query from a network device for instruction regarding where to send network traffic, the query including a first cookie, determine whether the first cookie is legitimate, and send a message to the network device, the message including either: the first cookie in response to a determination that the first cookie is legitimate or a second cookie which indicates a second next hop device determined by the controller in response to a determination that the first cookie is not legitimate. Other systems, methods, and computer program products are described in more embodiments.