SWITCHING NETWORK EMPLOYING VIRUS DETECTION

In a digital communication infrastructure, intermediate network nodes compare packets from end-point devices with pluralities of virus templates. Upon detecting matches, virus service functions are invoked which interrupt the packet flow. Network wide template and service functionality updating is provided to service pluralities of virus service software vendors. Non-repetitive detection processing minimizes network load. Virus service functions may execute locally and/or remotely. Servicing may include dropping packets containing virus codes or, processing and routing the packets. Pop-up messages revealing underlying template matches are delivered with human challenge mechanism. The network nodes may be routers, packet switching exchanges, switches, access points, Internet service provider equipment, etc. External vendor servers and server clusters may assist network nodes in detecting and processing packets for virus codes.