Abstract: Three-dimensional (3D) visualization of multi-layer networks include receiving data associated with a network, wherein the network includes interconnected network elements that operate at a plurality of levels that include any of network layers and encapsulations; displaying a plurality of three-dimensional icons each represent one of a plurality of network elements of the interconnected network elements; and displaying links between the plurality of three-dimensional icons each link representing one of a network layer connection and an encapsulation connection.

Abstract: A removable fastener for securing a first stud to a second stud each stud having an aperture with lateral and bottom edges, includes a joining member with a first end and second end having first and second notches sized to admit lateral edges made adjacent by placing the studs back-to-back. Fastener includes a locking member that has a stud end configured to rest on the bottom edges of the apertures and a fastener end configured to attach to the joining member, holding the joining member in position within the apertures when the joining member is engaged within the apertures; the fastener end may include a clip.

Abstract: Systems and methods include receiving data from a network that includes a plurality of network elements that operate at a plurality levels that include any of network layers and encapsulations; displaying any of the plurality of network elements as a three-dimensional icon on a network map; illustrating a plinth in the three-dimensional icon for each of the plurality of levels for each network element of the any of the plurality of network elements, wherein a plinth at each level indicates a corresponding network element participates in that level; and illustrating horizontal connectivity as links between any of the network elements via associated plinths.

Abstract: Shared risk representation in networks for troubleshooting, assignment, and propagation across layers includes obtaining a configuration for a format to represent shared risks in a network; assigning a value to a plurality of shared risks in the network utilizing the format and utilizing a plurality of assignment techniques including automatic assignment and manual assignment; propagating the assigned values of the plurality of shared risks across one or more layers in the network; and storing the assigned values for use in path computation in the network.

Abstract: Shared risk representation in networks for troubleshooting, assignment, and propagation across layers includes obtaining a configuration for a format to represent shared risks in a network; assigning a value to a plurality of shared risks in the network utilizing the format and utilizing a plurality of assignment techniques including automatic assignment and manual assignment; propagating the assigned values of the plurality of shared risks across one or more layers in the network; and storing the assigned values for use in path computation in the network.

Abstract: A removable fastener for securing a first stud to a second stud each stud having an aperture with lateral and bottom edges, includes a joining member with a first end and second end having first and second notches sized to admit lateral edges made adjacent by placing the studs back-to-back. Fastener includes a locking member that has a stud end configured to rest on the bottom edges of the apertures and a fastener end configured to attach to the joining member, holding the joining member in position within the apertures when the joining member is engaged within the apertures; the fastener end may include a clip.