A dynamic channel change technique is disclosed which may be implemented
between nodes and a Head End of an access network. Initially a network
device may communicate with the Head End via a first downstream channel
and a first upstream channel. When the network device receives a dynamic
channel change request which includes instructions for the network device
to switch to a second downstream channel, the network device may respond
by switching from the first downstream channel to the second downstream
channel. Thereafter, the network device may communicate with the Head End
via the second downstream channel and first upstream channel. Further,
according to a specific embodiment, the dynamic channel change request
may also include an upstream channel change request for causing the
network device to switch from a first upstream channel to a second
upstream channel.