This resource on packet switching and signaling will help professionals evaluate the merits of competing protocols and understand where individual protocols fit in a packet-based system. The book covers core packet-switching architectures, signaling flows, packet formats, and service delivery, emphasizing the benefits of a distributed architecture and of separating bearer and control. Individual technologies covered include Megaco, MGCP, SIP, and SDP. Sections on soft switching, protocol internetworking, and QoS complete the book. Stafford is a professional in the telephone industry. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)