NETWORK

Any connection of two or more computers that enables them to communicate. Networks may include transmission devices, servers, cables, routers and satellites. The phone network is the total infrastructure for transmitting phone messages. 

Network Access

The Network Access Charge covers the cost of connections to the local telephone network, allowing you to make local and long distance calls. This fee covers the cost of telephone wires, poles and other facilities that connect long-distance carriers to local telephone companies. Customers are charged a monthly Interstate access surcharge for each phone line they use. May also appear on your bill as the carrier line charge or intrastate access surcharge. 

Non-listed number

Your directory information is not printed in the telephone book, but is available through a directory assistance operator. There is a fee for this service. 

Non-published number

Your directory information is not printed in the telephone book and is unavailable through directory assistance. There is a fee for this service. 

Non-Regulated Service

Charges not controlled by the FCC or your state public utilities regulatory agency. 900 services fit in this category. 

NUMBER PORTABILITY

A term used to describe the capability of individuals, businesses and organizations to retain their existing telephone number(s) –– and the same quality of service –– when switching to a new local service provider. 

Number Portability Surcharge

On June 27, 1996 the Federal Communications Commission, or FCC, ordered Sprint and other telephone companies to implement number portability. Number portability allows you to move almost anywhere within your local calling area and keep the telephone number you have today. You can also keep your phone number if you switch your local service to another company that provides service within your current local calling area.  The Number Portability surcharge you see in the Taxes and Surcharges section of your bill allows phone companies to recover some of the costs involved in providing this service. This monthly end user charge will continue for a period of 5 years, ending after February 2004. 

OPERATOR SERVICE PROVIDER (OSP)

A common carrier that provides services from public phones, including payphones and those in hotels/motels. 

Optional Calling Plans

Local and long distance calling plans that provide discounted charges for toll calls. There are many different types of optional calling plans, for example, volume discount plans, block of time plans, discounts for specific countries or specific area codes, etc.  

PAGING SYSTEM

A one-way mobile radio service where a user carries a small, lightweight miniature radio receiver capable of responding to coded signals. These devices, called "pagers," emit an audible signal, vibrate or do both when activated by an incoming message. 

Pay-Per-Call Services

Charges associated with calls to 900, 976, or 211 numbers.. The caller pays a per-call or per-time-interval charge that is greater than, or in addition to, the charge for the transmission of the call. Your local service provider may permit you to block out the use of these numbers. 

PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE (PCS)

Any of several types of wireless, voice and/or data communications systems, typically incorporating digital technology. PCS licenses are most often used to provide services similar to advanced cellular mobile or paging services. However, PCS can also be used to provide other wireless communications services, including services that allow people to place and receive communications while away from their home or office, as well as wireless communications to homes, office buildings and other fixed locations.                       

PIC Freeze

A service obtained from your local telephone company that prohibits a third party from changing your long distance service provider without your express permission. This is sometimes also known as "Carrier Freeze". 

PRESCRIBED INTEREXCHANGE CHARGE (PICC)

The charge the local exchange company assesses the long distance company when a consumer picks it as his or her long distance carrier. 

Public Service Commission (PSC)

A state agency which regulates the intrastate communications industry and other state utilities. Some are known as Public Utility Commissions (PUCs).