Wide Area Network Provider and Demarcation Points

Demarcation Point (Demarc)

• Definition: Physical location marking the connection point between a service provider's network and an internal network.
  • Home Example: Telephone network interface or ISP-provided box.
  • Company Example: Specific location inside the building known to everyone.

Importance of Demarcation Point

• Troubleshooting: Identifies whether network issues are on the provider's side or the customer's side.
• Customer Premises Equipment (CPE): Equipment on the customer's side of the demarc.
  • Customer Prim: Common term for CPE.

SmartJack (Network Interface Unit, NIU)

• Purpose: Allows remote diagnostics and monitoring by the provider.
• Features:
  • Blinking lights and status indicators.
  • Usually placed in a locked container with limited access.
  • Provides more functionality than a simple RJ45 connector.

Remote Troubleshooting

• Provider's Advantage: Easier troubleshooting without physical presence at the demarc point.
• Customer Interaction: Customers can view alarm notifications and status lights to understand connectivity issues.