Abstract: A method and apparatus for transporting IP datagrams over SONET at a guaranteed quality of service are described. The method utilizes a multi-level bandwidth management hierarchy. A bandwidth allocation manager provides real time high level control of bandwidth allocation in each SONET domain. A bandwidth client at each node in the domain negotiates bandwidth requirements for IP services connected to the node. This enables low error bit rate, scalability and reliable service that can provide guaranteed quality of service for IP applications. All aspects of connection setup, bandwidth allocation, bandwidth size adjustment and connection termination are negotiated by the bandwidth client with the bandwidth allocation manager. Multiple domains can be interconnected to form larger networks providing reliable connections at a guaranteed QOS.

Abstract: A method for use of IN-service Non-intrusive measuring Device (INMD) for proving Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and pro-active maintenance in IP telephony networks is described. The INMD is currently used only in connection oriented TDM telephony networks and therefore cannot be used directly in the connectionless-featured IP telephony networks. The method for use of INMD to measure voice transmission quality in IP telephony networks include a set of pre-processes for processing IP voice datagrams, and converting the pre-processed datagrams to a format suitable for INMD before the INMD evaluates data in the datagrams for voice GOS. Various tests and co-processes are also used to determine network performance parameters. An IP telephony measurement apparatus for practicing the method is also described. A method for calibrating the device and algorithms is also provided to ensure a high level of confidence in the measurement accuracy.