Abstract: A multicast flow-zone switching method and system are disclosed. Stations use allocated address blocks to label multicast egress frames with identifying information, which may include a destination zone map and a source zone identifier. Frames may be marked with an arborescence set identifier during transit through a core network. Core zones may use a source branch identifier and arborescence set identifier in the frame to restrict transmission to paths following one or more specified arborescences. Frames are delivered only along paths necessary to deliver frames to multicast destinations.

Abstract: A computer data network is efficiently configured to forward multicast frames among a collective of hosts using a tree spanning the collective. The computer network topology may be a tree. It may also be a Clos fat-tree configured for flow-zone switching. Operation of a data switch to support collective multicast operation is disclosed.

Abstract: Flow-zone switching provides for the switching of frames through a network, basing forwarding decisions on location and flow information encoded in the frames, such as in the source and destination addresses. Various address formats are disclosed, supporting transfer of packet data among data switches as well as among servers at endpoints.

Abstract: Flow-zone switching provides for the switching of frames through a network, basing forwarding decisions on location and flow information encoded in the frames, such as in the source and destination addresses. Various address formats are disclosed, supporting transfer of packet data among data switches as well as among endpoints. Systems, apparatuses, and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: Flow-zone switching provides for the switching of frames through a network, basing forwarding decisions on location and flow information encoded in the frames, such as in the source and destination addresses. Various address formats are disclosed, supporting transfer of packet data among data switches as well as among endpoints. Systems, apparatuses, and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: Flow-zone switching provides for the switching of frames through a network, basing forwarding decisions on location and flow information encoded in the frames, such as in the source and destination addresses. Various address formats are disclosed, supporting transfer of packet data among data switches as well as among endpoints. Systems, apparatuses, and methods are disclosed.