AMnet provides a framework for flexible and rapid service creation. It is based on Active and Programmable Networking technologies and uses active nodes (AMnodes) within the network. These AMnodes are executing service modules for the provision of individual communication services. Using on-demand loadable service modules helps to enhance the functionality of intermediate systems without long global standardization processes. Placing application-dedicated functionality within the network

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... s a flexible signalling protocol to locate and announce as well as to establish and maintain the corresponding services. The AMnet signalling protocol discussed within this paper uses active packets-evaluation packets -for service location. The AMnet service control architecture further comprises periodic service announcements to make available services known to receivers.