A multi-path router includes an interface module (IM) having a time-sensitive logical processing path and a non-time-sensitive logical processing path and a special needs logical processing path and a filter for receiving a packet header and determining the needs of the packet header and for selecting one of: the time-sensitive logical processing path, the non-time sensitive logical processing path and the special needs logical processing path in response to the needs of the packet header. The multi-path router further includes a router special needs agent (RSNA), adapted to receive a packet header having special needs services. The multi-path router can be used in a network which includes first and second networks coupled to the multi-path router and wherein the RSNA receives information from the special needs logical processing path and provides information to the IM on a return path.