Abstract: Methods, configured storage media, and systems are provided for increasing bandwidth between a local area network (“LAN”) and other networks by using multiple routers on the given LAN. Data packets are multiplexed between the routers using a novel variation on the standard SYN packet synchronization protocol, and other components. On receiving data destined for an external network, a controller or gateway computer will direct the data to the appropriate router. In addition to providing higher speed connections, the invention provides better fault tolerance in the form of redundant connections from the originating LAN to a wide area network such as the Internet.

Abstract: Methods, configured storage media, and systems are provided for communications using two or more frame relay or point-to-point networks in parallel to provide load balancing across network connections, greater reliability, and/or increased security. A controller provides access to two or more private networks in parallel, through direct or indirect network interfaces. When one attached network fails, the failure is sensed by the controller and traffic is routed through one or more other private networks. When all attached networks are operating, the controller preferably balances the load between them.

Abstract: Methods, configured storage media, and systems are provided for resolving domain names into IP addresses in a path-sensitive manner, namely, a manner that may consider information about a link to a server and/or information about routers and other path components. The IP addresses given in response to domain name resolution requests are selected to provide increased reliability and/or dynamic load-balancing over paths.

Abstract: Methods, configured storage media, and systems are provided for increasing bandwidth between a local area network (“LAN”) and other networks by using multiple routers on the given LAN. Data packets are multiplexed between the routers using a novel variation on the standard address resolution protocol, and other components. On receiving data destined for an external network, a controller or gateway computer will direct the data to the appropriate router. In addition to providing higher speed connections, the invention provides better fault tolerance in the form of redundant connections from the originating LAN to a wide area network such as the Internet.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for transmitting a user's data between two computer networks over physically separate telephone line connections which are allocated exclusively to the user. The user's data is placed in data packets, which are multiplexed onto the separate connections and sent concurrently to a demultiplexer. The data packets contain a computer network address such as an Internet protocol address. A dynamic address and sequence table allows the demultiplexer operation to restore the original order of the data after receiving the packets. The set of connections constitutes a virtual “fat pipe” connection through which the user's data is transmitted more rapidly. Additional users may be given their own dedicated “fat pipe” connections.