ATM VP-based broadband networks for multimedia services

A virtual path (VP) based asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) network architecture that supports leased-line services is described. ATM multimedia leased-line services, including user access to VPs, tailored VP capacity, guaranteed quality of service, and reduced transmission cost, are discussed. It is argued that some issues remain to be resolved before fully realizing the services. The issues include the definition of source traffic descriptors, protocols for VP bandwidth alteration, end-customer control mechanisms, and VP restoration techniques.<
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