Abstract: A system and method are provided which permit the direct transfer of information in message packet format directly from memory locations within one node of a data processing system directly to memory locations in one or more receiving nodes. This function is provided via communications adapters connected to each node and to a switched network to which are also attached nodes possessing likewise configured communications adapters which are capable of responding to a wide variety of message packet transfer protocol and modalities, all of which effect a direct memory to memory transfer without the need to copy data into intermediate buffers.

Abstract: A communications adapter is provided with an instruction processor which accepts instructions and data for the processing of communication parameters which are used to establish direct memory to memory transfer of message packets from one node to another node without the need to produce or store the desired information within intermediate buffer storage.