Abstract
Telecommunications networks are evolving from rigid, hierarchical time division multiplexed networks into Broadband‐ISDN networks based upon Asynchronous Transfer Mode infrastructures. As the transport networks change, the signaling network architectures must also progress. Currently, signaling network architectures are optimized for operation over point‐to‐point circuit switched networks. In this paper, we examine the current hierarchical signaling network architecture and propose two alternatives for use in B‐ISDN environments – a flat model and a hybrid model combining features from the other two models. Analysis of the network architectures is performed using a discrete event simulator for ATM networks with additional components modeling the operation of telecommunications networks.