| 摘要 |
A technique performs route optimization of services provided by one or more service providers (SPs) for communication links that are combined in a computer network. According to the novel technique, performance characteristics and statistics ("link data") for two or more combined links are merged to form link data for a single 'Virtual combined link." Route optimization techniques (e.g., priority-based route optimization) may then be applied to one or more virtual combined links based on the combined link data, in addition to link data for zero or more conventional single links (physical or virtual). Illustratively, a route optimization technique may be used in accordance with the present invention to efficiently and accurately minimize costs associated with services provided by a plurality of SPs, wherein each SP charges for utilization of its service based on a tiered pricing structure. The tiered pricing structure comprises one or more tiers, wherein each tier correlates to an amount of service provided by the SP and an associated cost. |
