Content-Based Network Traffic Redirection via MPLS Labeling

The patent introduces an intermediary system that sits between the packet source and the network routing infrastructure. This intermediary intercepts packets, evaluates them against business rules, and modifies packet headers to redirect traffic flow. By placing the complex rule evaluation logic in this intermediary layer rather than configuring each network device individually, the patent achieves flexible content-based routing while simplifying overall network configuration.

The patent segments the routing function into distinct components: the intermediary device that performs rule evaluation and packet modification, and the core network infrastructure that handles standard routing. This segmentation allows the complex policy-based routing logic to be isolated in a single intermediary system, reducing configuration complexity across the broader network while maintaining routing flexibility through the intermediary's rule engine.

The patent creates a virtual copy or overlay of dedicated connection functionality using existing network infrastructure. Instead of physically provisioning dedicated connections between all possible location pairs, the intermediary device virtualizes the dedicated connection experience by routing traffic through selected paths based on business rules. This allows multiple locations to communicate reliably without requiring physical dedicated connections between each pair.

The patent makes the existing shared network infrastructure universal by enabling it to provide dedicated-connection-like service to multiple different location pairs dynamically. The intermediary device configures the network to provide reliable communication for various location combinations on demand, allowing the same physical infrastructure to serve multiple dedicated connection scenarios without requiring separate physical connections for each location pair.