Abstract: A particular method includes receiving, at a device, an identifier of a set top box. The method also includes determining, at the device, based on the identifier of the set top box, whether the set top box is capable of supporting a high-definition television service or a digital video recording service. The method further includes selectively sending a power-up event to a service provider based on determining whether the capabilities of the set top box match a pending order.

Abstract: Customer communications can be controlled in accordance with customized rules. An entry menu includes options to modify an existing rule or create a new rule for controlling customer communications. An initial selection criteria menu includes options to indicate whether the new customized rule will be built using a preexisting template or starting from initial blank rule criteria. A list of preexisting templates for creating new customized rules can be provided, and input to populate a selected template can be accepted. Initial blank rule criteria for creating new customized rules can also be provided, including initial criteria and rule conditions for selected initial criteria. Communications are processed in accordance with the stored new customized rule.

Abstract: A method for communicating between a source and a destination in a service provider internet protocol network includes receiving, at an egress edge device from an ingress edge device on the service provider internet protocol network, an upper layer packet comprising data received in turn from the source and encapsulated in accordance with a service provider format into the upper layer packet. The upper layer packet includes a virtual private network identification identifying a destination. The method also includes authenticating the upper layer packet at the egress edge device using the virtual private network identification. Upon authentication, the upper layer packet is decapsulated into a lower layer packet for the destination.

Abstract: A multi service platform having multiple layer switching includes a layer two switching component disposed within an enclosure of the multi service platform. A layer three switching component is disposed within and integrated together with the layer two switching component within the enclosure of the multi service platform. A connection, including an internal virtual UNI connection, terminates at the layer two switching component and at the layer three switching component. The connection is disposed internally within the multi service platform.