Network router that routes internetwork packets between distinct networks coupled to the same physical interface using the physical interface

摘要

A network router that routes internetwork packets between distinct networks coupled to the same physical interface. The router comprises a port for coupling to a multiplexing fabric that carries internetwork traffic for a plurality of distinct networks and a routing engine that routes internetwork traffic between the plurality of networks using the port. According to various embodiments, the multiplexing fabric may be a switched fabric or a shared media fabric. The multiplexing fabric may also be used to connect networks that operate according to different protocols to the same port.