A multi-bearer network (MBN) is a network having the capability to carry a data packet via one of several alternative bearers. To be more precise, the term multi-bearer network should be interpreted as meaning 'multi-bearer-type network', or in other words, a network arrangement which provides multiple different bearer types for data packet delivery.
An example of a suitable MBN is a concept known as Multimedia Environment for Mobiles (MEMO). Additionally, the MBN supports mobility of a subscriber terminal. An example of terminal mobility is IP mobility, which is the topic of standard [1] by the IETF. The problem underlying the invention is how to select the optimal bearer for each data packet in varying situations in a multi-bearer network. Data packets have different quality-of-service requirements. Situations may vary because the subscriber moves or the network load changes.
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