An apparatus in one example has: a plurality of networks operatively coupled to one another, and having respective end points; and a single SIP profile useable by each network of the plurality of networks; wherein two end points, via signaling mechanisms within SIP, negotiate a level of support for ISUP services that are usable between the two end points. The first forward error correction unit encodes packets belonging to robust and normal bit streams. Once the hardware configuration files have been configured, the system is rebooted.