Abstract: A method of operating a switched communications network redirects certain types of messages away from the switch to free up switch resources for other messages, thereby decreasing the size of switch needed or delaying necessary switch size upgrading. Messages are redirected by intelligent concentrators that can connect certain types of messages to their destinations without routing them through the switch. For example, messages between an origination and a destination connected to the same concentrator need not be sent through the switch. Similarly, messages between originations and certain high-volume, long-duration destinations such as data service gateways can be connected directly without passing through the switch. The intelligent concentrators communicate with the switch on a control channel so that the switch remains aware of the status of each origination or destination (e.g., so that it knows not to attempt to route messages to an origination or destination that is in use).

Abstract: A communications system is provided which supports asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) communications. An ATM multiplexer is located at a customer's premises and connected to customer premises voice and data equipment. A central office ATM multiplexer is connected to various different networks in the existing network infrastructure. The central office ATM multiplexer is preferably connected to networks such as a low-speed packet-switched network, a public circuit-switched network, a private line network, and a high-speed packet-switched network. The ATM multiplexer located at the customer premises preferably supports dynamic bandwidth allocation. Additional features provided by the communications system include the ability to provide different voice encoding schemes for different users based on calling party or called party information.