Multiple path multiplexed host to network data communication system

Claim 1

A host-to-network data communication system for transferring data between a system bus of a host computer and a network bus of a local area network, comprising: system bus means for coupling to a system bus of a host computer for exchange of digital data therewith; a system-multiplexer bus coupled to said system bus means for transfer of digital data to and from said system means; a multiplexer-switch coupled to said system-multiplexer bus for allowing said system-multiplexer bus to be selectively coupled to other portions of said communication system; network bus means for coupling to a network bus for exchange of digital information therebetween; a network-multiplexer bus coupled between said network bus means and said multiplexer-switch to carry digital data between said network bus means and said multiplexer-switch; a memory having a first port and a second port, said first port being connected to a memory-system bus, said second port being connected to a memory-multiplexer-switch bus, said memory transferring digital information from its first port through said system bus means to said system bus, said memory sending and receiving digital information through its second port via said multiplexer-switch either to and from said network bus means or to and from said system bus means; wherein said multiplexer-switch is configured to allow direct communication between said system bus means and said network bus means through said multiplexer switch, network bus means and said multiplexer-switch to carry digital data between said network bus means and said multiplexer switch.