US Patent 7543081 Use of N

A computer implemented method, data processing system, and computer usable program code are provided for using identifier virtualization to extend the virtualization capabilities of protocols. A determination is made as to whether a logical entity requires a unique identifier in order to extend a virtualization capability of a protocol. A unique name is assigned that is associated with the logical entity. The unique identifier is requested from a fabric using the unique name. The logical entity is notified that the unique identifier has been established for the logical entity in response to receiving the unique identifier from the fabric. The unique identifier identifies the logical entity within or attached to the fabric.