Method for processing asynchronous low-level protocols in a

Abstract

The present invention provides a method and apparatus for multi-protocol, point-to-point communications which allocates processing tasks between a processor of an end point device and a processor of a communication device. The processor of the end point device performs all higher level protocol processing and the processor of the communication device performs lower level protocol processing. Internet service providers usually have several modems connected to each host computer for providing simultaneous point-to-point communication with a plurality of end users. The modems normally are located on cards which reside inside of the host computer, which may be a personal computer. To prevent the host processor from having to perform all of the protocol processing tasks for each session, the present invention provides for off-loading at least a portion of the Point-to-Point Protocol processing onto the modem processors. The host and the communication device or devices are interfaced via a shared memory device. This increases throughput and leaves the host processor free to perform other tasks. Preferably, the modem processors perform the portion of Point-to-Point Protocol processing which includes framing and unframing, Frame Check Sequence generation and checking and shielding and unshielding.