Configuration management of large IP telephony networks

A nationwide Internet telephony network is described that uses H.323 gateways distributed around the USA to provide customers with local telephone access to application services hosted at a central data center. A key technology that enables deployment of the network is automated configuration management. The configuration management system includes a detailed object-oriented data model of the network coupled with a collection of applications supporting configuration, auditing, testing, monitoring, and updating of network elements. The configuration management system allows the network to be administered and maintained quickly and accurately, minimizing costs in staff and service outages.