open network architecture (ONA)

In the context of the FCC's Computer Inquiry III, the overall design of a communication carrier's basic network facilities and services to permit all users of the basic network to interconnect to specific basic network functions and interfaces on an unbundled, equal-access basis. Note: The ONA concept consists of three integral components: (a) basic serving arrangements (BSAs), (b) basic service elements (BSEs), and (c) complementary network services.