A method includes pooling bandwidth between first and second pooling points in a communication system. The pooled bandwidth is commoditized by making available tradeable bandwidth segments having negotiable sizes and characteristics. A transaction between a buyer and a seller for at least one bandwidth segment is initiated, wherein the seller delivers to the buyer bandwidth between the first and second pooling points pursuant to agreed upon terms. The delivered bandwidth is monitored to ensure that the bandwidth is delivered according to the agreed upon terms. A system includes a first pooling point, a second pooling point, a service provisioning system, a cross connection switch, and a quality of service manager. The second pooling point is coupled to the first pooling point and bandwidth is pooled between the first and second pooling points. The pooled bandwidth is commoditized by making available tradeable bandwidth segments having a negotiable size and a determinable quality of service. The service provisioning system is coupled to at least on of the first and second pooling points, and the service provisioning system facilitates a transaction between a buyer and a seller for bandwidth at a contracted for quality of service. The cross connection switch is coupled to at least one of the first and second pooling points, and the cross connection switch executes the transaction between the buyer and seller by enabling delivery of bandwidth between the first and second pooling points at the contracted for quality of service. The quality of service manager is coupled to at least one of the first and second pooling points, and the quality of service manager monitors the delivered bandwidth to ensure that the contracted for quality of service is delivered.