Equivalence and generalization in a layered network model

We investigate basic algorithmic and structural properties of a formal model of layered telecommunication networks. The network model includes ports, which are access points to data streams; links, which transmit data streams; and adapters, which convert data streams from one layer to another. Two ports communicate if there is a path from one to the other in which every adaptation is balanced by a reverse adaptation. An instance of the model captures a snapshot of the configured state of a telecommunication network.