An apparatus and methods for disambiguating data elements transmitted by exception over a multi-path, multi-tiered communications network of nodes from at least one originating node to a destination node. A method includes the steps of receiving counter data from each node operable to originate data elements, receiving a data element name, evaluating counter data from nodes forming at least one possible path between the named data element's originating node and said destination node; and indicating as unambiguous data associated with the data element name if each of the nodes forming the possible path are transmitting counter data to the destination node. The apparatus includes a processor coupled to the destination node and to a source of data element names, a memory containing a path database and instructions for searching the database for paths of the named data element and to update the database with data relating to counter data reception.