Congestion handling in a packet communication system

摘要

A packet communication system is disclosed that includes an end communication device, a call processing system, and a packet network. To setup up a call from an end user, the end communication device transmits a call request message to the call processing system. The call request message has a header that includes priority information for the call. The call processing system processes the priority information in the header of the call request message to determine if the call request message is for a high priority call. If the call request message is not for a high priority call and the call processing system is in a state of congestion, then the call processing system transmits a response message indicating the state of congestion. Responsive to receiving the response message, the end communication device performs call blocking and provides call treatment to the end user.