Abstract: An enhanced CLAW protocol supports the transfer of multiple data types from different sockets/sessions within a single channel operation between a host mainframe and a control unit of a computer network. Multiple sublinks are created under a single packed CLAW logical link, wherein each sublink may transport a uniquely identifiable data type as a message from a socket/session. The messages are then concatenated within a single CLAW data block for transfer over a channel coupling the host and control unit. In addition, the invention increases the maximum size of the CLAW block for each channel operation.

Abstract: An option request protocol allows dynamic negotiation of options between a host computer and a control unit of a computer network. The protocol is manifested as an exchange of novel control messages over a control link used to establish logical data links for communication between the host and control unit. The options negotiated by the control message exchange generally pertain to additional functions performed by the control unit or host, or additional parameters for communication over the data links coupling the control unit and host.

Abstract: A technique allows dynamic negotiation of application names executing on nodes of a computer network for creating a data link for communication between the nodes. Dynamic negotiation is effected through an exchange of novel control messages over a control link used to establish application-application logical links between the nodes. The control messages instruct the nodes to create applications having names specified within predetermined fields of the messages. The technique obviates the need for a system administrator to issue configuration commands to a responding node to statically configure that latter node for communication over a network.

Abstract: An option request protocol allows dynamic negotiation of options between a host computer and a control unit of a computer network. The protocol is manifested as an exchange of novel control messages over a control link used to establish logical data links for communication between the host and control unit. The options negotiated by the control message exchange generally pertain to additional functions performed by the control unit or host, or additional parameters for communication over the data links coupling the control unit and host.

Abstract: A technique enables a control unit to perform checksum operations for packets, which operations are otherwise performed by a host computer of a computer network. The technique involves the use of two data links coupled between the host and control unit; one data link is used for exchanging "normal" IP packets without checksum operations performed thereon by the control unit and the other link is used for exchanging IP packets that have undergone or will undergo checksum operations by the control unit. By "offloading" checksum operations to the control unit, the technique reduces processor cycles consumed by the host, thereby improving the performance of the host computer and network.