Abstract: In a method for operation of a network comprising a plurality of networked controllers in a vehicle, controller groups are each formed from a plurality of controllers, and are designed to carry out various vehicle functions. One of the controllers in each controller group is configured as a function master controller which stores all data relevant for the vehicle function associated with this controller group. A central controller communicates with all of the function master controllers, and stores the data from all of the function master controllers using a global variant coding (GVC). In addition, the central controller transmits a global status message (GSM) in the network, which message comprises a status signal (GSS) that signals whether a change has occurred in the GVC, and at least some of the GVC. All of the active controllers carry out an update, if necessary, by access to the GVC, of all the data which is relevant for the respective controller when the GSM signals a desired GVC.