Avoiding data loss in a multi-homed layer two bridging network

摘要

A network system includes a provider backbone bridged network (PBBN) and a multi-homed provider bridge network (PBN) having a plurality of L2 switches that operate as backboned edge bridges (BEBs) to bridges L2 packets between the PBN and the PBBN. A first one of the L2 switches is configured to bridge L2 packets from a first backbone VLAN (B-VLAN) to the PBN when a physical link of the multi-homed PBN is operational. The L2 switch is further configured to shunt the L2 packets from the first backbone VLAN to a second one of the L2 switches operating as a secondary BEB of the multi-homed PBN via a second B-VLAN when the physical link is non-operational.