A network element for a data transfer network

摘要

A network element (201) for a data transfer network comprises functional entities (221-226) each being adapted to maintain an entity-specific configuration system which comprises configuration entries with the aid of which the functional entity under consideration is able to co-operate with the other functional entities so that the network element is capable of operating as a part of the data transfer network. The network element maintains a database that is writeable and readable by the functional entities. At least one configuration entry related to one or more of the functional entities is composed of data items written by many functional entities to the database, and thereafter the relevant one or more functional entities read the configuration entry from the database. The database that is commonly used by the functional entities facilitates maintaining the congruence between the functional entities and reduces the amount of configuration data traffic between the functional entities.