| abstract |
The disclosed embodiments include a computer implemented method for routing data packets. In one embodiment, the method includes storing network usage information of a packet network managed by a communications carrier including network usage information associated with communications by subscribers of other communications carrier that communicate data packets over the packet network, the network usage information distinguishing between data packets associated with a first service and data packets associated with a second service; determining pricing information for communicating the data packets via a plurality of networks, wherein each network is associated with a different communications carrier; and selecting one of the plurality of networks for routing the data packets based on cost, wherein the cost includes a first cost for communicating the data packets that are associated with the first service and a second cost for communicating the data packets that are associated with the second service. |