Abstract: A communication network has a plurality of mutually connected network nodes in which in each case network data relating to the network topology of the entire communication network are maintained. Depending on the network data, routing tables for connection paths to all remaining network nodes are created. If an event that influences the network topology of the communication network occurs, on the one hand the network data maintained therein are updated by the network node detecting the event. On the other hand, a broadest message corresponding to the event is transmitted to the other network nodes, following the reception of which the respective network nodes update the network data maintained therein.

Abstract: Method for maintaining virtual connections given an at least partial outage of connecting paths. Given the occurrence of a connection disturbance, a virtual connection initially set up within a first packet switching network (PVN1) is cleared down proceeding from the disturbed location up to the originating and destination switching equipment (Verm1, Verm2). Upon employment of a specifically generated call request, a new virtual connection proceeding from the originating switching center (Verm1) is then set up between the originating and destination switching equipment of the first packet switching network (PVN1) via an alternate route upon involvement of a second packet switching network (PVN2).

Abstract: Method for setting up virtual connections in packet switching networks. In response to a call request with which the set up a virtual connection is requested and that is supplied to an originating switching center (for example, Verm1) of a first packet switching network (PVN1), the appertaining call request is modified when a suitable transmission path within the first packet switching network is not present. The modified call request is then transmitted via a network interface location (UE1) to a second packet switching network (PVN2) in order to set up an alternate route upon involvement of a further network interface location (UE2), to the destination switching equipment (Verm1) of the first packet switching network (PVN1) that participates in the virtual connection that was just requested.