Web-based customer service management system for a virtual private network service based on semi-permanent connections

Private network managers today are becoming increasingly demanding when it comes to the cost and the management of their networks and services. Consequently, they are also expecting more flexibility and more advanced management capabilities from the services they get from their service providers. This paper elaborates on new ways to cut down costs, enhance service levels, and distribute management responsibilities between players for semi-permanent connection services-still an indispensable component for most private networks. A virtual private network concept based on leased-line services is introduced in order to meet the new customer demands. Selected management features for this service can be shifted from the service provider to the customer. For these customer service management solutions, distributed computing technologies based on the Web and Java technology are indispensable.