Path optimization in packet-based telecommunication network

摘要

The invention relates to connection-oriented packet-based telecommunication networks such as ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) and particularly to route optimization in such networks. A network node (20) on the route adds to a packet flow a special packet comprising a unique code which the network node (20) locally uses for identifying the special packet and for associating the special packet to a particular formed connection. If there is a loop on the path (2,BTS1,3) the special packet added to the packet flow returns back to the same network node. When the network node detects that the special packet provided with the unique code returns back, it may conclude that on the path of the connection to which the unique code is associated to, there is a loop that should be eliminated. Thereafter the network node may internally switch an optimal path (1,4,BTS2) bypassing the detected loop (2,BTS1,3). Furthermore, the network node preferably releases the loop in a manner characteristic of the network. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention also the elimination of the detected loop is based on the use of the special packet.