Abstract: A router in data communication with an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) is responsive to the state of the ATM. The router may connect the ATM system to a primary host or one or more alternative host systems. If a connection to the primary host cannot be made or an established connection to the primary host is lost, the router automatically establishes a connection to an alternative host. In one particular preferred embodiment, the router waits to switch the connection from an alternative host back to the primary host until the ATM has completed any pending transactions.