In according with the teachings of the present invention, a method and apparatus for performing fast call set-up in a wireless network is presented (FIG. 2). A number of efficiencies are implemented to diminish the time required for establishing a call in a packet-based network. For example, call initiation (224) and Base Station Subsystem (BSS-202) resource allocation are performed contemporaneously; radio Link resources and packet resources are initiated contemporaneously (242-244); an A10 interface is established immediately after allocating and connecting packet control function (PCF) resources for a packet data session (246); and a service connection request (254) is performed immediately after a channel assignment process (250) is performed.