A method and system for protection switching distributes responsibility for action between a central controller and network elements at endpoints of a linear point-to-point network path. The central controller may be configured to support protection switching by network elements at endpoints of a linear point-to-point path, such that the network elements perform protection switching independently and without direct involvement and/or dependency of the central controller. Simultaneously, the central controller may remain aware of network element actions, events, and states with regard to protection switching, by receiving corresponding notifications from the network elements.