Seamless overlay connectivity using multi-homed overlay neighborhoods

Abstract

A communication system enables a node to utilize multiple communication interfaces to connect to an overlay network. The use of multiple communication interfaces provides a redundant overlay network connection, thereby enabling a node to maintain connectivity or select a preferred connection to the overlay network, increasing efficiency or reducing costs in the overlay network. A network in which member nodes obtain services in the absence of server-based infrastructure is referred to as a 'peer-to-peer overlay network' (or 'overlay network' or simply “overlay”). Overlay networks consist of several nodes from hundreds, to thousands, joined together in a logical routing structure. Individual nodes often participate in routing and maintenance aspects of the overlay. Typically an overlay is formed through the enrollment and joining of all these nodes as defined by the overlay protocol. Nodes forming peer-to-peer overlay networks may communicate with each other over various network technologies.