A system for data communication. In one example method, a first system sends an enhanced capability exchange (CAPEX) request message to a second system. The CAPEX request message includes a request to change the number of connection pipes on an established socket-based connection between the first system and the second system. The first system receives an enhanced CAPEX response message from the second system. The CAPEX response message accepts the request to change the number of connection pipes on the established connection. The first system changes the number of connection pipes on the established connection in accordance with the accepted request.