Abstract: A first end-to-end connection between a source node and a destination node is established. The first end-to-end connection may include a number of point-to-point links between a number of intermediate nodes. At the same time, a second end-to-end connection is established between the source node and the destination node. The second end-to-end connection may also include a number of point-to-point links between a number of intermediate nodes, however, at least some of the point-to-point links and intermediate nodes which make up the second end-to-end connection are distinct from those which make up the first end-to-end connection. The source node stores connection information for both end-to-end connections. The source node establishes a session across the first end-to-end connection and, upon recognizing the failure of this connection, switches the session the second end-to-end connection automatically.