Abstract: A system for configuring network devices on a computer network, which has particular applications in a hot-desking office environment, maintains within a database (110) not only the IT infrastructure of the network but also the organisational or business relationships between certain networked devices, for example the information that a particular computer terminal (404) is physically located on the same desk as an adjacent network telephone (406). This information allows the telephone or other associated networked devices to be automatically configured with a pre-defined profile of the user who will be sitting at that workstation. The invention enables delivery of an integrated and easy to maintain IT service regardless of wherever the individual chooses to work within the office.

Abstract: A management system for an ATM virtual path network in which the physical connections are provided by broadband links between ATM switches. The management system measuring current network load in individual links and virtual paths, and comprising sets of inter-communicating distributed agents for carrying out management in response to measured load and management requirements.