Abstract: In an embodiment, a method of identifying critical nodes in a wireless network from a network topology graph for the network, the wireless network comprising a plurality of nodes and a plurality of links between the nodes, and the network topology graph for the network indicating the plurality of links between the nodes comprises: selecting each node in turn as a candidate node, and for each candidate node: generating a network topology graph for a sub-network comprising all of the nodes of the wireless network except the candidate node; determining from the network topology graph for the sub-network if the sub-network is fully reachable; and generating an indication that the candidate node is a critical node if the sub-network is not fully reachable.

Abstract: Certain embodiments provide a system comprising a plurality of Femtocell base stations in communicative contact with each other, in use, via a control channel. The Femtocell base stations arranged to exchange information suitable for controlling a said Femtocell base station via said control channel.

Abstract: A device and method of scheduling data transmission in a communication system comprising receiving at a first network node a request for data transmission to the first network node and scheduling a data transmission originating at first network node so that the end of the data transmission substantially coincides with or is earlier than the expected end of the data transmission to first network node. The first network node is an access point or a station.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a method, in a source wireless station, of transmitting a data packet to a destination wireless station over a communication channel of a wireless network while the communication channel is in use for a communication exchange between a first wireless station and a second wireless station is disclosed.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a method of identifying critical nodes in a wireless network from a network topology graph for the network, the wireless network comprising a plurality of nodes and a plurality of links between the nodes, and the network topology graph for the network indicating the plurality of links between the nodes comprises: selecting each node in turn as a candidate node, and for each candidate node: generating a network topology graph for a sub-network comprising all of the nodes of the wireless network except the candidate node; determining from the network topology graph for the sub-network if the sub-network is fully reachable; and generating an indication that the candidate node is a critical node if the sub-network is not fully reachable.

Abstract: A HNB or Femto-Cell base-station arranged to locally re-route text based messages originating form locally residing user equipment or appliances if the destination device is also residing within the area covered by the Femto-Cell. The Femto-Cell base station may be arranged to exert a degree of autonomous control of local appliances based on rules and determine desired recipients of locally originating messages.

Abstract: Certain embodiments provide a system comprising a plurality of Femtocell base stations in communicative contact with each other, in use, via a control channel. The Femtocell base stations arranged to exchange information suitable for controlling a said Femtocell base station via said control channel.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and apparatus for alternative mode monitoring in a communications system, particularly a wireless communications network.

Abstract: An adaptive frequency hopping scheme for use in a predetermined spectrum of communication channels, comprising the steps of setting a monitoring period for each channel while it is in use, detecting the number of damaged or lost transmissions within the monitoring period, marking the channel as “bad” if the detected number is greater than a first predetermined number and then using an alternative channel of the spectrum.