Architecture for integrated services packet-switched networks

A switching node for an Integrated Services Packet-Switched Network having a plurality of priority levels based on service guarantees associated therewith, the switching node comprising:

• means for allocating each incoming flow to a respective one of the priority levels, based on service guarantees required by each said incoming flow;
• admission control means for determining whether, if an incoming flow is admitted, the service guarantees can be met for the incoming flow and all previously admitted flows;
• means for calculating capacities that are required for the incoming flow and all lower priority flows having guaranteed services;
• and
• means for admitting the incoming flow if there is sufficient network capacity to handle the sum of said capacities.

An Integrated Services Packet-Switched Network having a plurality of priority levels based on service guarantees associated therewith, the network comprising a plurality of switching nodes, wherein at least one switching node comprises:

• means for allocating each incoming flow to a respective one of the priority levels, based on service guarantees required by each said incoming flow;
• admission control means for determining whether, if an incoming flow is admitted, the service guarantees can be met for the incoming flow and all previously admitted flows;
• means for calculating capacities required for the incoming flow and all lower priority flows having guaranteed services;
• and
• means for admitting the incoming flow if there is sufficient network capacity to handle the sum of said capacities.