Abstract: A unidirectional ring operates in accordance with a call setup procedure in which a single node on the ring, referred to herein as the “hub node,” simultaneously (i) processes call setup information from and provides call setup information to an ATM network, and (ii) controls the call setup operations of the nodes on the ring. When a source node that is part of the ring initiates a call, the node directs a call setup message to the hub node. The hub node determines if there is sufficient bandwidth available on the ring for the call. If so, the hub node passes the call setup message to the ATM network, and simultaneously multicasts call setup information to the nodes on the ring. While the call setup message is progressing over the ATM network in a conventional manner, the nodes on the ring simultaneously set up the associated virtual path and/or virtual circuit and send back connection information to the hub node.