Network node configuration by a proxy

An apparatus 10 comprises a backhaul sub-node 12 for connecting to a communications network and an access sub-node 14 for providing access to user equipment. In response to a trigger condition, such as the start-up or new deployment of the apparatus, the backhaul sub-node performs an auto-configuration process in which it connects to a further network node, determines configuration parameters for itself, and stores configuration parameters for the access sub-node in a proxy system 94. A subsequent auto-configuration request from the access sub-node is then intercepted by the proxy system, which in turn issues a response based on the stored parameters. The proxy system may also retrieve aspects of the configuration from a server 80. The configuration of the backhaul sub-node may involve selecting one element management system 86 from multiple on the network, with the parameter then stored on the proxy indicating the selected system. The access sub-node may have multiple antenna systems and the stored parameter may relate to their selective enablement. The access sub-node may be an eNB and the network LTE.