Abstract: A remote communications server system enables multiple remote users simultaneous access to a network through a segmented design that distributes the processing of the connections among a combination of buses and processors. The system coordinates a plurality of independent communications links bonded together into a single channel to create a virtual connection to the network having a bandwidth greater than the individual links. The system supports a mixture of physical and multiplexed communication links and allows the intermixing of different types of links in a bonded channel. The system is scalable in that segments can be added as needed and the number of lines handled by a segment can be increased.

Abstract: An intelligent LAN modem node is used in a bridge system which provides transparent internetwork communications over a plurality of channels. The LAN modem node is protocol independent and has a packet load distribution system which shares packet traffic across the channels using optional user-defined channel preferences. The LAN modem nodes used in the bridge system provides compression for increasing bridge transmission speed. The bridge system provides a filtering system to control access over the bridge and restrict unnecessary bridge traffic. Additionally, the bridge system provides automatic redial in the event modem communications are lost.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus which provides a shared modem resource to PCs connected through a local area network and to off-network PCs. In particular, the present invention is an intelligent LAN modem node which combines the attributes of a local area network node, an intelligent operating personal computer and one or more modems constructed in a dedicated fashion. The LAN modem node operates as a standalone node on a LAN to allow the shared resources of modem communication for the other PCs on the network and off-network PCs without tying up any of the PCs on the network for modem communications. The LAN modem node allows the PCs on the LAN to communicate with off-LAN devices such as mainframe computers, off-site printers, minicomputers, other local area networks and the like. The LAN modem node also gives off-LAN personal computers access to network resources.