Abstract: A radio access network includes a transport network layer; a radio network layer having a layer 2 network for communicating between entities within the radio network layer by exchanging datagrams having a predetermined format used only within the radio network layer. Accordingly, the present invention provides for a true decoupling at layer 2 between the radio network layer and the transport network layer. Addressing at layer 2 can enable both connectionless and connection oriented using an overlay connectivity model. Layer 2 in the radio network layer is implemented as an Ethernet network.

Abstract: A radio access network includes a transport network layer; a radio network layer having a layer 2 network for communicating between entities within the radio network layer by exchanging datagrams having a predetermined format used only within the radio network layer. Accordingly, the present invention provides for a true decoupling at layer 2 between the radio network layer and the transport network layer. Addressing at layer 2 can enable both connectionless and connection oriented using an overlay connectivity model. Layer 2 in the radio network layer is implemented as an Ethernet network.

Abstract: A radio access network includes a transport network layer; a radio network layer having a layer 2 network for communicating between entities within the radio network layer by exchanging datagrams having a predetermined format used only within the radio network layer. Accordingly, the present invention provides for a true decoupling at layer 2 between the radio network layer and the transport network layer. Addressing at layer 2 can enable both connectionless and connection oriented using an overlay connectivity model. Layer 2 in the radio network layer is implemented as an Ethernet network.

Abstract: Data network signals, methods and devices that are suitable for multiplexing payload data in a packet switched data network are disclosed. Payload associated with multiple packets is multiplexed into a single multiplexed packet. Each payload portion is identified by a mini-header within the multiplexed packet. Mapping information may also be transferred as part of such multiplexed packets which include multiplexed payload data. Preferably, the mapping information is used to form mapping tables within routers at edges of access networks. The mapping tables may be used to establish a relationship between mini-headers and full headers. The mapping tables may be used to multiplex data from packets to form a multiplexed packet at an ingress router, and demultiplex the multiplexed packet at an egress router. Conveniently, neither gateways nor out of band signalling are required.

Abstract: An Enhanced Communication Services layer is adapted for connection intermediate a content application layer and a transport services layer of a communication network. The content application layer is adapted to generate payload data of a service instance. The transport services layer includes a physical fabric of the communication network and is adapted for end-to-end transport of the payload data across the communication network. The Enhanced Communication Services layer comprises a Contact Agent, an Exchange Agent and a Transport Agent, The Contact Agent is adapted to discover information identifying parties involved in a service instance. The Exchange Agent is responsive to the Contact Agent, and adapted to select, from a network space comprising one or more transport services, a best match set of transport services for the service instance. Finally, the Transport Agent is responsive to the Exchange Agent for engaging the selected set of transport services for the duration of the service instance.

Abstract: A radio access network includes a transport network layer; a radio network layer having a layer 2 network for communicating between entities within the radio network layer by exchanging datagrams having a predetermined format used only within the radio network layer. Accordingly, the present invention provides for a true decoupling at layer 2 between the radio network layer and the transport network layer. Addressing at layer 2 can enable both connectionless and connection oriented using an overlay connectivity model. Layer 2 in the radio network layer is implemented as an Ethernet network.