Method and system for monitoring and testing a communication network

A protocol analysis access system ("PAAS") and a restricted access method for remotely monitoring and testing embedded channels in a signal communicated over a telecommunications network. The PAAS system is capable of accessing a signal from a network circuit through digital cross-connect systems ("DCSs") or through direct connections. In case of restricted network access, the PAAS performs non-intrusive monitor-only function on the signal without interfering with or interrupting the data flow over the network circuit. In addition, the PAAS system is capable of performing non-intrusive conformance testing on a signal using a protocol analyzer. In case of non-restricted network access, the PAAS system allows full performance testing on a signal. The PAAS system functions are executed by an external command source from a remote network maintenance center via remote control links. The monitor-only and test results are reported back to the remote network maintenance center for further analysis.