Trunk and switch architecture for providing switched-circuit connections to on-line data services

Abstract

A method and system for providing a network which routes telephone calls to the dial-up access line of on-line data services, such as an Internet Service Provider. The calls are routed over, over data trunks to a circuit-switch that consolidates access to on-line data services. The data trunks are separate from trunks carrying normal voice telephone calls. At the originating office where the telephone call originates, the call is recognized as a call to a telephone number associated with the dial-up access telephone number of an on-line data service. A database selects a route over a data trunk to the terminating office having a circuit-switch that consolidates access to the on-line data services. The consolidation of access to on-line data services over segregated data trunks to a single circuit-switch reduces congestion in the network by relieving the network from handling a large volume of long duration telephone calls.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] A. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to a method and device for directing circuit-switched connections carrying on-line data to an on-line service such as the Internet. More particularly, the present invention relates to a device and method for switching telephone calls to the dial-up access lines of Internet Service Providers. [0003] B. Description of the Related Art [0004] In the past, most telephone service subscribers have used telephone service for placing ordinary voice calls. Plain old telephone service (“POTS”) is typically delivered over a subscriber loop between the subscriber's home or office and the local telephone company central office. The telephone company central offices provide a circuit-switched network to establish connections between subscribers wishing to communicate. In such a circuit-switched system, a circuit connection is established and maintained for the duration of each telephone call. [0005] R...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

These terminating offices providing access to ISPs have seen the most growth in call traffic and thus the greatest potential for call congestion.

Because of the load on the network, customers may experience longer waits for dial tone, longer connection times, and even the blocking of telephone calls.

If not addressed, call congestion in these offices may result in a degradation of the quality of telephone service to all customers.

Packet networks, however, have not yet been as widely deployed and would require substantial new investments in network equipment.

Increasing the capacity of the entire network, however, is costly and does not necessarily generate additional revenue to cover the cost of the additional equipment.

Moreover, introducing increasing switching and trunking capacity throughout the entire network is disruptive, and difficult to administer and manage.

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