Abstract: A device and a method for controlling and/or configuring an intermediate interface connecting two network elements, i.e., local exchange and access network, in a telecommunications network for setting up and maintaining subscriber connections in the network includes a number of intermediate paths. Each path has transmission channels for interchanging user information for subscriber connections, for interchanging communication information to control subscriber connections, and for controlling administration of the intermediate paths and intermediate interfaces. A transmission channel in the interface is intended for use as a protected channel for communication information for administration of the intermediate interface. Each protected channel is administered with a communication channel entity. Information relating to the protection of protected channels is transmitted using a protection protocol, with at least two channels reserved for this purpose.