The commercial demand for higher aggregate data rates has led to DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexed) transmissions. Network elements need the capacity in these systems to reconfigure in case of a bit stream failure. The instant invention can bridge communications between other network elements including optical and electrical signal network elements, when a loss of signal detection circuit to substitute a second bit stream for a time delayed original bit stream and a circuit element connected to the loss of signal detection circuit to permit the network elements to reconfigure without activating automatic protect switch mechanisms of a bridged network. The instant invention also teaches a method for ensuring communication of network elements of a bridged network including optical and electrical signal network elements, by detecting a loss of signal in a transmitted bit stream; substituting a second bit stream for a time delayed original bit stream; and allowing network elements to crossconnect to reconfigure optical channels in a manner that will not interfere with network functions.