A network access point (NAP) is a major point where internet service providers (ISPs) can connect with one another in peering arrangements. NAPs were central in the early days of the Internet when it was making the transition from a government-funded network to a commercial one.
Originally there were four network access points in the Uniteds States. The National Science Foundation put out contracts for the NAPs as part of a transition from the National Science Foundation Network (NSFNet). The location of the four NAPs were Washington D.C., New Jersey, Chicago, and California. The modern day equivalent of a NAP is an internet exchange point (IXP).
Share this Term
Tech moves fast! Stay ahead of the curve with Techopedia!
Join nearly 200,000 subscribers who receive actionable tech insights from Techopedia.
Latest Articles
By: Claudio Buttice | Data Researcher, Contributor
By: Amy Parker | Technology Consultant
By: Claudio Buttice | Data Researcher, Contributor
By: Justin Stoltzfus | Contributor, Reviewer
