Abstract: A self-configuring node includes a number of data processors associated with corresponding ports of an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) switch. When the node is placed into service, each of the processors automatically broadcasts an initial message to all of the ATM switch ports including each processor's identification and ATM switch port location. After receiving the initial message broadcast by the processor, a designated master processor stores the broadcasting processor's identification and ATM switch port location in a database and sends an acknowledgment directed specifically to the processor broadcasting the initial message. From that received acknowledgment signal, the processor recognizes the identity and ATM switch location of the master processor. Internal Control Paths (ICPs) are established through the ATM switch between processors using the identification and location information stored for each board processor.