A backbone is a larger transmission line that carries data gathered from smaller lines that interconnect with it.
1) At the local level, a backbone is a line or set of lines that local area networks connect to for a wide area network connection or within a local area network to span distances efficiently (for example, between buildings).
2) On the Internet or other wide area network, a backbone is a set of paths that local or regional networks connect to for long-distance interconnection. The connection points are known as network nodes or telecommunication data switching exchanges (DSEs).
This was last updated in October 2000
Dig Deeper
-
An advanced analytics engine for VoIP call detail records (CDRs) enabled Momentum Telecom to improve service quality assurance, slash troubleshooting time and pursue new business opportunities.
-
Carriers hope MPLS Transport Profile, or MPLS-TP, will reduce transport network complexity by providing a packet switching technology that works across different types of transport networks but offers unified network management and provisioning. MPLS expert Ivan Pepelnjak talks about how MPLS-TP differs from MPLS and whether it will meet carrier needs.
-
This smart grid technology primer examines how utilities, vendors and telecom providers are focused on the goal of improving energy transmission and distribution via advanced communications infrastructure to promote effective energy management and use. Telecom carriers have important roles to play, especially with 4G wireless WiMAX and LTE network deployment.
-
People who read this also read...
-
Resources from around the Web