Abstract: Embodiments of an overlay network with innovative virtual network switches and related network interface controllers are disclosed. According to one embodiment, the overlay network may comprise at least one virtual network switch (VNS), wherein each VNS is installed within a corresponding first processing endpoint which is logically above a network of virtual machines. And, the VNS may be configured to intercept data packets transmitted on a network layer logically below the network of virtual machines. The VNS may comprise: (a) a manager element configured to connect to at least one virtual network interface controller (VNIC), each VNIC being installed within a corresponding second processing endpoint which is also logically above the network of virtual machines; (b) a replicator node configured to replicate and route the data packets; and (c) a switch controller configured to control the first replicator node.

Abstract: Embodiments of an overlay network with innovative virtual network switches and related network interface controllers are disclosed. According to one embodiment, the overlay network may comprise at least one virtual network switch (VNS), wherein each VNS is installed within a corresponding first processing endpoint which is logically above a virtualization layer of a virtual network. And, the VNS may be configured to intercept data packets transmitted on a network layer logically below the virtualization layer of the virtual network. The VNS may comprise: (a) a manager element configured to connect to at least one virtual network interface controller (VNIC), each VNIC being installed within a corresponding second processing endpoint of the virtual network, the second processing endpoint being separate from the first processing endpoint; (b) a replicator node configured to replicate and route the data packets; and (c) a switch controller configured to control the first replicator node.

Abstract: A security system having two-way communication with a central monitoring station. The security system is equipped with a computerized control and communications unit. The control and communications unit is connected to a position determination device and to a calling unit. The control and communications unit is also connected to several intrusion detection devices. Upon direction of the control and communications unit, for example, in response to the detection of a violation of an intrusion detection device, the calling unit establishes a communications link with the central monitoring station and communicates thereto the status and location of the vehicle in which the security system is located. The control and communication device is operable to receive commands from a handset electrically connected thereto. The central monitoring station, by communicating with the control and communications unit, is operable to control functional units of the vehicle.