Modem on hold

The present invention relates to a routing method for use by a communication network while a first modem is in communication with a second modem over a communication line, said routing method comprising: transmitting a network request by said communication network to said first modem to request said first modem to initiate a modem on hold process for placing said communication over said communication line with said second modem on hold; receiving an acknowledgement by said communication network from said first modem that said communication between said first modem and said second modem over said communication line has been placed on hold for a period of time; and substituting a third modem for said first modem in response to said receiving said acknowledgement, wherein said second modem starts communicating with said third modem over said communication line after said period of time elapses.