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Simple English definitions for legal terms
local-exchange carrier
Read a random definition: Form S-1
A quick definition of local-exchange carrier:
A local-exchange carrier is a company that provides telephone service in a specific area through a network of equipment like switches, wires, and databases. They are also known as LECs. The network is called a local-exchange network and it connects telephones to each other. The government requires LECs to allow other companies to use their network to provide competition.
A more thorough explanation:
A local-exchange carrier is a company that provides telephone service in a specific area through a local network. This network includes switches, local loops, and transport trunks, which allow for the routing of calls to their destination. The local-exchange carrier is also responsible for maintaining billing databases and operator services.
For example, AT&T is a local-exchange carrier that provides telephone service in many areas of the United States. They have a network of switches, local loops, and transport trunks that allow for the routing of calls to their destination.
There are federal requirements that local-exchange carriers allow competition by selling access to their network. This includes unbundled access, which allows other companies to use parts of the network to provide their own services.
Overall, a local-exchange carrier is a company that provides telephone service in a specific area through a local network of switches, local loops, and transport trunks.