Method For Securing The Communication Links And The Associated Charges In A Redundant Communication Network

A method for securing communication links and associated charging in a redundantly configured communication network in which terminals communicate via bearers, and via hardware units by means of messages, comprising:

• using a monitoring function to monitor a correct functioning of at least one of the terminals, the bearers and the hardware units;
• in case of a failure of at least one of the hardware units, taking over of a physical function of a failed hardware unit by at least one functional hardware unit;
• after taking over a physical function, transmitting a message by the at least one functional hardware unit to a terminal affected by a failure;
• establishing by the at least one functional hardware unit that the monitoring function is executed by the at least one functional hardware unit;
• and
• in case of an ongoing transaction, transmitting a signal from a failed hardware unit to the at least one functional hardware unit such that overcharging for said transaction is avoided.