A method is presented for supporting SNCP over a packet network connecting to two SDH sub-networks and transporting one or more SDH paths that are SNCP-protected in both SDH sub-networks. The packet network connects to each of two sub-network interconnection points by a working path and a protection path. The packet sub-network may provide the same type of path protection as an SDH sub-network using SNCP, while avoiding bandwidth duplication.