3link

3link is a framework and protocol designed to unify three distinct communications channels into a single logical link. It targets enterprises and Internet of Things deployments that require resilient connectivity and simplified data routing. The core concept is tri-link multiplexing, which aggregates bandwidth, provides automatic failover, and applies end-to-end encryption across all paths.

Origin and development of 3link trace to an open- source initiative launched in the mid-2010s by a coalition focused on remote operations. The project evolved into commercial offerings with support for on‑premises, cloud, and hybrid deployments. The ecosystem includes a tri-link manager at the network edge, channel-specific adapters for wired, wireless, and satellite connections, and a central orchestration layer that maintains session state and optimizes path selection.

Architecture and protocol design rely on a lightweight header used to negotiate path priority and multiplex multiple streams over the three channels. The tri-link manager coordinates link health checks, handoffs between channels, and data reconciliation when one path degrades or fails. The approach emphasizes modularity, allowing organizations to mix transport technologies and vendor hardware while preserving a unified data plane.

Security and compliance features include end-to-end encryption, mutual authentication, and channel-aware access controls. Implementations commonly support TLS 1.3 and DTLS, with options for hardware security modules in sensitive environments.

Applications of 3link span remote monitoring, field service, and supply-chain operations, where continuous data flow is essential despite intermittent connectivity. Critics note that adoption remains most prominent among niche industries, and interoperability with non-3link systems may require adapters or bridging solutions.

See also: Multipath TCP, link aggregation, edge computing.