Abstract: Method and apparatus for configuring systems implementing diverse platforms in a network is described. In one example, functional units of the systems are exposed to define abstract function signatures. A template is specified using at least one of the abstract function signatures to define at least one executable task. The template is translated into configuration data adapted to configure each of the system to collectively perform the at least one executable task. The configuration data is applied to the systems through a coupler layer adapted to interface with each of the diverse platforms.

Abstract: Telecommunications switching systems that require real-time computer control can be controlled using remotely located computers coupled to the switching systems via data links. By coupling several switching systems to one or more centrally located control computers, maintenance staffing can be reduced while increasing overall system reliability by providing back up control computers in multiple centralized locations. Centrally located control computers can be backed up with redundant computers at the central control site.