METHOD AND EQUIPMENT FOR CONTROLLING NETWORK

PURPOSE: To actualize efficient control by control elements embedded in an optical system network. CONSTITUTION: Before data regarding a specific communication are transmitted, a network controller 60 specifies a path which is not used among connection paths over the entire network from one entrance part to one exit part. Once the unused path is specified, the network controller 60 determines control information used when the path is activated and transmits the control information into the network, in detail, through the network entrance part. The network activates the specified path in response. Then a communication is made usable through the activated path only for its individual connection.