Abstract: A network architecture is provided for enhanced support of network services. The architecture includes an operations gateway defined by a number of agents that take responsibility for accomplishing support system related functions including financial transaction functions. Messages are conveyed to the agents that have informational elements containing data or other information useful in accomplishing the necessary functions. Preferably, the network is defined to comprise one or more layers including a service layer, a service instance layer, a connection layer and a connection instance layer. Each layer has associated with it one or more management, fulfillment, charging and booking agents. The operations gateway enables service providers to rapidly introduce new services while optimizing the interchangeability of system components or equipment that are useful in supporting the network services.