A type 5 subarea node contains a system services control point (SSCP). An SSCP activates, controls, and deactivates network resources in a subarea network. In order to control and provide services for its subordinate nodes, an SSCP establishes sessions with components in the network.

For example, using a directory of network resources, an SSCP can use a session to assist an application in locating a partner and establishing a communications session. An SSCP provides the following functions:

• Manages resources on a subarea network level in accordance with the commands that network operators issue
• Coordinates the initiation and termination of sessions between applications in separate nodes within its domain, or across domains in cooperation with other SSCPs
• Coordinates the testing and status monitoring of resources within its domain