Method for processor overload control in a voice over internet protocol cable modem termination system

CMTS software keeps track of the number of call requests accepted during a given monitoring period, this number being referred to as Count. As each call request is received, Count is compared to the current value stored in an overload state MIB (which can change multiple times during a monitoring period based on the actual overload state as reported by fault management). If Count exceeds the MIB value, the call request is denied. After the monitoring period ends, the Count of call requests accepted is reset to zero and the count value begins incrementing at the start of the next monitoring period as calls are accepted.