Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer instructions are provided for enhancing software catalog manageability, providing abstract software configuration, and desired state management. A first mechanism is provided for enhancing software catalog manageability. The first mechanism includes a software model that separates metadata of software from actual binaries of the software. A second mechanism is provided for abstracting software configuration for automation. The second mechanism includes a hierarchical software resource template structure that specifies parameters, dependencies between parameters, features, options, and parameters that cannot be predefined. The template is consumed by user defined workflows to create actual software resources during deployment. A third mechanism is provided for desired state management and patch compliance assessments.

Abstract: In an embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of managing virtual local area networks (VLANs) using abstract broadcast domains. First, a first broadcast domain having a first VLAN is established. Next, a second broadcast domain having a second VLAN is established. A third broadcast domain is then established, replacing both the first broadcast domain and the second broadcast domain. Thus, the first VLAN and the second VLAN are included in the third broadcast domain without having to physically manipulate switches or otherwise manipulate the logical connection between data processing systems. After aggregation, the first VLAN directly communicates with the second VLAN.