Network failure restoration method with different recovery performances for different signal groups

摘要

In a communications network, shared spare routes and dedicated spare routes are provided between nodes of adjacent pairs and a dedicated spare path are provided between terminal nodes. Each of the dedicated and shared spare routes comprises a link or a series of permanently connected links. A first signal requiring a quick fault restoration performance is transmitted over the first working path and a second signal not requiring the quick fault restoration performance is transmitted over the second working path. The working paths and all working links are monitored to detect a path or link failure. If the first working path is affected by a path failure, the first signal is instantly switched to the dedicated spare path, and if it is affected by a link failure, the first working path is reestablished using one of the dedicated spare routes. If the second working path is affected by a path failure, an alternate path is established between the terminal nodes using the shared spare routes and the second signal is switched to the alternate path and if it is affected by a link failure, an alternate route is established using one of the shared spare routes and the second working path is reestablished using the alternate route.