permanent virtual circuit (PVC)

A network connection with a static route defined in advance, usually by manual setup.

A virtual circuit used to establish a long-term connection between data terminal equipments (DTE). Note 1: In a PVC, the long-term association is identical to the data transfer phase of a virtual call. Note 2: Permanent virtual circuits eliminate the need for repeated call set-up and clearing. Deprecated synonym nailed-up circuit.