Hybrid networking simple-connect setup using forwarding device
AssigneeQualcomm Atheros, Inc.
InventorsLawrence W. YONGE, III, Sidney B. Schrum, Richard E. Newman
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Abstract
A simple connect setup function for hybrid networks is provided that allows a user to add devices optionally having a number of different network interfaces (e.g., that facilitate communications using different network technologies or protocols) to a hybrid network in a single, simplified operation that alleviates the need for the user to individually connect and/or configure a multitude of different network interfaces. The simple connect setup function also alleviates the need for the user to know on which devices the simple connect setup function must be activated for successful simple connect setup.
Claims20
A method for adding a selected device to a hybrid network having a plurality of member devices, comprising:
- activating the selected device to send a connect message in a first communication protocol;
- activating a first member device in the network to become an add device, wherein the add device communicates using a second communication protocol;
- broadcasting an encapsulated connect message from the selected device;
- employing a second member device as a forwarding device to forward the encapsulated connect message to the add device;
- and
- adding the selected device to the hybrid network, using the add device, in response to receiving the encapsulated connect message.
A system for adding a selected device to a hybrid network having a plurality of member devices, comprising:
- means for activating the selected device to send a connect message in a first communication protocol;
- means for activating a first member device in the network to become an add device, wherein the add device communicates using a second communication protocol;
- means for broadcasting an encapsulated connect message from the selected device;
- means for employing a second member device as a forwarding device to forward the encapsulated connect message to the add device;
- and means for adding the selected device to the hybrid network, using the add device, in response to receiving the encapsulated connect message.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.