System and method for packet classification

The present invention provides method for data packet processing in a telecommunications system. The method of the present invention can include the steps of (i) determining a set of classification parameters for a data packet at an ingress edge unit, wherein the classification parameters include a packet destination, (ii) communicating the data packet to an egress edge unit and (iii) routing the data packet to a destination egress port at the egress edge unit according the classification parameters determined at the ingress edge unit. In one embodiment of the present invention, the classification parameters can include a destination egress edge unit, a destination egress port at the destination egress edge unit, and quality of service parameter for proper processing of the data packet.