Abstract: A network router initially communicates over a primary data path. Upon detection of an error condition associated with the primary data path, the network router initiates a layer 2 switch such that the communication occurring over the primary data path is switched to a backup data path. The layer 2 switch is preferably transparent to a layer 3 portion of the network router.

Abstract: A router in one embodiment of the present disclosure has first router logic and boot logic. The first router logic is configured to operate the router, and the boot logic is configured to receive updated router logic from a network and to perform a first reboot. The boot logic is further configured to initialize deactivation of the first router logic and initialize activation of the updated router logic during the first reboot such that a plurality of functions for the router are enabled during execution of the updated router logic. The boot logic is also configured to perform, in response to an error during execution of the updated router logic, a second reboot such that at least one of the functions is disabled.

Abstract: A router comprising first router logic configured to operate the router and boot logic configured to initialize deactivation of the first router logic and initialize activation of updated router logic, if the updated router logic experiences an error during execution.

Abstract: A network router initially communicates over a primary data path. Upon detection of an error condition associated with the primary data path, the network router initiates a layer 2 switch such that the communication occurring over the primary data path is switched to a backup data path. The layer 2 switch is preferably transparent to a layer 3 portion of the network router.