Abstract: A network (10) for providing cross-context connections between subscribers comprises a plurality of directory databases for storing mappings between individual names, addresses and personal identification numbers of network subscribers in a plurality of telecommunications contexts such as business, residence, cellular, etc. The network (10) also comprises a linking database comprising one entry for each subscriber. Each entry of the linking database is accessed by the personal identification number of a subscriber and contains pointers to particular ones of the directory databases where the addresses for the subscriber in different contexts can be found. For example, to set up a cross-context connection, a first subscriber (A) who knows the address of a second subscriber (B) in one context, transmits the known address to a directory controller (70).

Abstract: A time-shared computer system is disclosed in which computer software programs, either application programs or operating system programs, can be retrofitted with new programs which are totally incompatible with the old versions, all without interrupting service provided by the software programs. In a real time software system such as one providing telephone service, the processor (or processors in a multiprocessor system) is divided into two logical partitions. The old version of the software runs in one partition while the new version is loaded into and started up in the other partition. When the new version is verified to be properly operating, the data traffic is transferred from the old version parition to the new version partition in two steps. First the input data is switched to the new verison. When the transactions in progress in the old version are all completed, the output data is switched from the old version to the new version.