System and method for processing packets in a multi-processor environment

A method for processing packets in a multi-processor environment, that includes receiving a set-up request packet for a communication session and directing the set-up request packet to a selected one of a plurality of processors. A set-up reply packet is generated at the selected one of the plurality of processors, the set-up reply packet including a virtual identifier assigned to the selected one of the plurality of processors. The set-up reply packet is transported to establish the communication session.