System and method for communicating data in a network environment

[0006]Certain embodiments of the present invention may provide a number of technical advantages. For example, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a data management approach is provided that intentionally imparts a delay for selected packets of information in order to minimize congestion in the network and to maximize bandwidth utilization. This is a result of identifying a proper retransmission timeout (RTO) value associated with the information. The RTO value may be used in conjunction with an algorithm in order to provide a variance for data propagating in the network. This may result in a delay interval being provided for the packet in order to optimally deliver data to its intended destination.

[0007]Another technical advantage associated with one embodiment of the present invention relates to a number of data management features or capabilities that may be implemented on a given network element. Such features may include acknowledgment (ACK) splitting, retransmission processes, and window scaling manipulations. These features may be provided in conjunction with the protocol being used to communicate information from one point to another. These features may also be used in various combinations (or independently) in order to properly direct information in the network. In addition, these features may be provided at selected locations in the network such as, for example, in multiple network elements where appropriate. The implementation and positioning of these features is a result of the substantial flexibility offered by the teachings of the present invention. Accordingly, these features may be provided in any suitable location in order to effectuate the proper management and routing of data in the network.

[0008]Yet another technical advantage associated with one embodiment of the present invention relates to its implementation. The end-to-end model may be preserved and, thus, minimal changes may be required for an end host stack. Additionally, such an implementation may be effectuated while still realizing a full utilization of bandwidth being provided by the link facilitating communications between two network elements. Accordingly, a performance enhancement associated with the effective management of data may be achieved in cooperation with elements and objects already present in a given architecture. Certain embodiments of the present invention may enjoy some, all, or none of these advantages. Other technical advantages may be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the following figures, description, and claims.

This may result in a delay interval being provided for the packet in order to optimally deliver data to its intended destination.