A method and a network element for processing signaling data and for controlling connections of subscribers of a packet-switching communications network. A network element actuates a concentrator interface using at least one connecting unit and makes resources available to it. Signaling data for performing subscriber signaling of a subscriber of the packet-switching communications network is transmitted between at least one packet control unit and the connecting unit via a message control system of the network element. The packet control unit converts the signaling data of the network element into signaling packets of the packet-switching communications network and vice versa. The signaling packets are transmitted between the network element and the subscriber.