System and Method for Interconnecting Multiple Virtual Private Networks

Abstract

A system and method for interconnecting multiple VPNs, each using multiple service providers, while offering a minimum standard of end-to-end connection quality and reliability are described. The system and method utilizes an overseer that resolves end-to-end issues across multiple interconnected virtual private networks. When connecting multiple virtual private networks multiple interconnect providers are interconnected so that the end-to-end service quality standard is met. The certification of service providers, exchange points, transit service providers and IPSec devices permits interoperability for encryption, integrity and authentication across the product of all IPSec vendors. When two subscribers both use certified IPSec equipment then they can provide each other with controlled access to each other's networks.

Description

[0001] This application is a continuation application of U.S. application Ser. No. 09 / 653,201, filed on Aug. 31, 2000, which claims priority to the provisional Application Ser. No. 60 / 151,563, entitled “Method & Apparatus For a Globalized Automotive Network & Exchange,” filed on Aug. 31, 1999, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates to virtual private networks. More particularly, the present invention relates to virtual private networks wherein in each virtual private network, multiple service providers can be utilized by the trading partners of the virtual private network. The end-to-end service quality of the connection within the virtual private network is guaranteed to meet minimum requirements. The end-to-end service quality encompasses numerous factors including: network services; interoperability; performance; reliability; disaster recovery ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a system and method for interconnecting multiple virtual private networks (VPNs) using multiple service providers while ensuring a minimum standard of end-to-end service quality. An overseer is used to define service quality, qualify service providers, and resolve end-to-end issues across multiple interconnected VPNs. The invention also allows for interoperability for encryption, integrity, and authentication across the product of all IPSec vendors, providing controlled access to each other's networks. Overall, the invention provides a more efficient and reliable way to connect multiple VPNs."

Problems solved by technology

While the Internet works well for non-mission critical applications, such as transmitting and receiving e-mail and hosting websites, it has some drawbacks for business-to-business commerce and communication that require stringent end-to-end service quality.

Due to the nature of the Internet, it cannot guarantee such a maximum time lag.

The Internet has no such guarantees for help availability in a multi-provider environment.

Such a lack of guaranteed bandwidth, latency and reliability are major impediments to business-to-business commerce and communication over the Internet.

A company considering conducting business-to-business commerce over the Internet runs the risk of making their intranet vulnerable to such viruses and attacks with the potential related loss of data.

However, while VPNs can connect to other VPNs over the Internet by providing authentication, access control, confidentiality and data integrity, there is still no way the end-to-end quality of the connection can be guaranteed to meet a required set of minimum standards in a multi-provider setting.

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