Abstract: A system and method that routes special number calls from communications devices, including VoIP communications devices, to an answering point that is selected based on a parameter. A peering network effects parameter-based routing of calls to a pre-assigned answering point, wherein the voice path and the signaling paths are set up simultaneously. A gateway in the peering network is connected to the service provider switch and receives special number calls. The gateway queries a pre-provisioned parameter server that determines call routing information for the particular communications device. The gateway then selects another gateway, or, optionally, a selective router access provider network, based on the routing information and delivers the call thereto. The other gateway or selective router access provider network is connected to a router in the destination network and delivers the call and the call parameters to the router.

Abstract: A method for use in diverse networks that authenticates inter-network resource requests. A router in a first network receives a request for a resource from a second network. The router sends a query to an element in the second network to determine whether the request actually originated there. If the request did originate from the second network, the request is processed according to the procedure for the requested resource. If the request did not originate from the second network, then the first network terminates the request. Thus, no network resources are consumed unnecessarily by accidental or malicious requests.

Abstract: A system and method for purchasing, customizing and modifying switch-based and Advanced Intelligent Network (AIN) telephone services through the Broadband Network. The system and method utilize a Graphical User Interface (GUI), a remote control and a Set Top Terminal (STT). The GUI is operative to access both Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and non-PSTN telephone services. The remote control is similarly operative to navigate the GUI. Finally, the STT, which is provided in electrical communication with the GUI and the Broadband Network is provided for receiving downloaded video for display to the subscriber on the GUI and sending upstream signaling to the Broadband Network. The Graphical User Interface leads the telephone services subscriber through configuration options and permits the subscriber to easily purchase, customize and modify selected telephone services without direct interaction with service provider personnel.