Abstract: A method and apparatus for alarming on all signaling protocol messages that fail in substantial numbers on any particular routes within an IP network are disclosed. For example, upon receiving these alarms, the network will attempt to identify, and to correct the error producing conditions to prevent further call signaling message failures.

Abstract: The present invention enables an overlay capability to be invoked on network systems and elements that are designed to support multiple customer bases. Depending on the registered identification of the user, screens and other user interfaces that provide access to functions can be overlaid on the network component and segmented along customer classifications.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing an alerting tool to measure the amount of logging in a network component, for example a network element, and to provide an alarm to a network operator or an automated system when the amount of logging reaches a predefined threshold are disclosed. The network component can then be instructed to reduce the logging activities until all processes appear to be normally utilized and queue lengths return to a normal level.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for measuring voice quality in a packet network is described. In one example, statistics for calls in the packet network per customer segment of a plurality of customer segments are obtained over a period of time. The statistics are processed to identify call patterns for the plurality of customer segments. Sample measurements of voice quality are obtained for each of the plurality of customer segments in response to the call patterns.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for allowing trials and court proceedings to occur in a virtual manner using a one way video session and a two way voice session are disclosed. During the trials or court proceedings, the defendants and their testimony can be viewed by judges and jurors who remain in isolated rooms with their identities masked. Judges and attorneys can verbally intercede during the proceedings via a two way voice session but the video session for the duration of the trial is one way.

Abstract: The present invention enables a capability for packet-switched network service providers, e.g., VoIP network service providers, to monitor the CPE application usage of their subscriber to ensure that changes to the network do not interfere with these applications and to potentially provide changes to the network to enhance these premise based applications. Monitoring software will be installed in the CPE to monitor upgrades and features installed by the end users so that any potential impact to these applied applications can be assessed before a VoIP network upgrade is carried out.

Abstract: The invention comprises a method and apparatus for validating at least one command. Specifically, the method comprises receiving the at least one command, wherein the at least one command is associated with at least one command source, processing the at least one command for determining at least one network component for which the at least one command is destined, and validating the at least one command according to at least one attribute, wherein the at least one attribute is associated with at least one of the at least one network component, the at least one command source, and the at least one command.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for enabling service providers to offer video services while enabling users to engage in an instant messaging session in a separate display frame on a video display device, such as a television, are disclosed. Specifically, a user can request the network to activate and display a video session, such as a movie. The user can invite one or more other users to participate in the video session. As other users accept to participate in the video session, the network can activate another session that enables the participants to communicate with each other via instant messages.

Abstract: An access architecture for real-time communications is described. The architecture includes an inter-architecture network utilizing a single protocol, a plurality of border elements in communication with the inter-architecture network and with an external network, and one or more call control elements in communication with said inter-architecture network. The external network utilizes any of a variety of known networking technologies and protocols. The inter-architecture network utilizes a single protocol such as SIP. The present architecture provides a single common infrastructure for offering real-time communications services independent of call control protocols and networking technologies.