Abstract: In one embodiment, a system includes a number of application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). At least one of the ASICs is configured to process incoming data packets and outgoing data packets. At least one of the ASICs is configured to move data between a respective networking module and a destination networking module. The system also includes a cable backplane having a number of parallel cables configured to transmit data between the number of ASICs.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system includes a number of application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). The system also includes one or more processors coupled to the ASICs including instructions executable by the processors. The processors being operable when executing the instructions to configure the plurality of ASICs to route data packets using a standard protocol; configure the ASICs to set up a tunnel, using the standard protocol, for moving data packets from one ASIC to another of the number of ASICs; and implement a software overlay to facilitate interaction between the number of ASICs through the tunnel for moving the data packets.