Abstract: A method and a system for preventing phantom data communication links from occurring that substantially eliminates or reduces at least some of the disadvantages and problems associated with previous data communication network management techniques. In accordance with a particular embodiment of the present disclosure a method for managing data communications is provided that comprises the step of providing a central office data communication switch that comprises a plurality of data communication ports. A port controller causes the ports to estimate various physical characteristics of the incoming signals from network termination points. This processing of incoming signals leads to the precise detection of phantom links and their immediate termination.