Network Element | As defined in the Telecommunications
Act of 1996, a facility or equipment used in provisioning a telecommunications
service. The term may include the features, functions and capabilities of that
facility or equipment.
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Network Node | In a topological description of a network, a point of junction of the
links. Switching center used in data networks, particularly in the
context of packet-switching.
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Network Operations Center (NOC) | An operations center, open 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, that oversees
and coordinates management of the switching network; it manages the status of
the network and coordinates the use of network trunking capacity. In case of
problems, the NOC sets restoration priorities and coordinates restoration activities.
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Number Portability | The ability of telecommunications service users to retain,
at the same location, existing telephone numbers without impairment of quality,
reliability, or convenience when switching from one telecommunications carrier
to another.
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Numbering Plan Area (NPA) |
An NPA is referred to as an area code. There are two general categories of
NPAs:
- Geographic NPA -- Associated with a defined geographic area; all
telephone numbers bearing such an NPA are associated with services provided
within that geographic area.
- Non-Geographic NPA -- Associated
with a specialized telecommunications service, which may be provided across
multiple geographic NPA areas; for example 800, 900, 700, 500 and 888. Also
known as a Service Access Code or SAC Code.
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