Abstract: In a telecommunications network comprising a plurality of nodes (N1, N2. . . ) interconnected by communications links (L1, L2. . . ) each incorporating one or more communications channels, traffic routing between network nodes is determined by providing a map or model of the network and determining in the model first and second nodes between which a communications path or route is to be established across the network. A set or colony of exploratory agents is created at the first node, and explores the model network via the links and nodes between the first and second nodes, each agent recording the results of its exploration. From this exploration, a route favoured by a significant number of the agents is determined and is set up on the telecommunications network.