Towards a self-healing intelligent network

The elements of an intelligent distributed network are explored. The network is built with modular packet switching nodes interconnected with high-speed bi-directional transmission facilities. The network architecture resembles a pyramid constructed with layers of independent functions. A review is conducted of assumptions about the network environment, and some required network attributes are listed. The minimal changes needed in the service and maintenance functions to achieve a self-healing intelligent network are illustrated with the details of alternate routing