Abstract: Network elements in IMS or other SIP systems are configured to pre-authenticate SIP requests either as proxy or by snooping. One or more of these network elements are pre-loaded with a local database copy of the user profiles as typically contained in the HSS inside of the IMS control structures. A master database, such as the one typically contained in the HSS, is distributed to all network elements using database distribution methods. Advantageously, pre-authentication solves bottleneck issues in the SIP mechanism by allowing an end user device to use fully authenticated SIP requests. This prevents the requirement to perform authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) all the way back to the core IMS network, alleviating lag and scaling issues. Additionally, network elements including can become aware of the services requested through SIP requests, and track these requests for optimization. Specifically, resources requested based upon SIP requests can be cached.

Abstract: Typically, services in a network are set up via direct provisioning performed by an EMS/NMS/OSS, i.e. a platform supporting multiple WDM spans in order to provide NM services or a system responsible for managing at least part of the network, and communicating with agents in order to help keep track of network resources, statistics, and performance. Alternatively, services in the network are set up via automated nodal software that is capable of performing routing under EMS/NMS/OSS command. The present invention utilizes an XML-based protocol for controlling a plurality of settings to tie network equipment together, such as telecommunications, cable, enterprise, wireless, etc., across different transport network technologies, including optical, wireless, TDM, and packet. Network requests are carried in self-describing XML messages that are parsed by a general XML language parser. This changes the paradigm of XML used to control data records to XML controlling network equipment.

Abstract: Typically, paths in a network are set up via direct provisioning performed by an Element Management System/Network Management System/Operations Support System, i.e. a platform supporting multiple Wavelength Division Multiplexed spans in order to provide Network Management services/a system responsible for managing at least part of the network, and communicating with agents in order to help keep track of network resources, statistics, and performance. Alternatively, paths in the network are set up via automated nodal software that is capable of performing routing under EMS/NMS/OSS command. A relatively recent protocol, Session Initiation Protocol, has evolved for use in conjunction with multimedia devices in order to locate and connect devices together.