network node (NN)

A grouping of one or more network elements (at one or more sites) which provides network related functions, and is administered as a single entity. A single site may contain more than one network node. For the purpose of this glossary, a network node is considered synonymous with a network element, and is usually at a single site. This restriction simplifies the definition of the network node interface (NNI) and INI, which would not apply between network elements. [T1.640-1996]