Network element interconnection management system

A network element (E1) maintains a database (20) of possible and non-possible connections, and has a controller (30) running software (L) which describes each point of the network in the form of a matrix (R1). This matrix is modified as interconnections are made in the network to create an updated matrix (R2), the software including an algorithm which searches for objects not assigned to an interconnection and defines solutions, or, if all objects are allocated, evaluates possibilities for reconfiguration of connections. The updated model is communicated via a standard interface (Q) to the central control unit (10) which uses it to establish possible paths within the network.