Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) Glossary Definition

Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is a Telecommunications network concept used to connect endpoints, route traffic, switch calls or packets, and move communications across access, transport, or core networks.

Network engineers use this concept when designing topology, routing traffic, documenting circuits, and distinguishing access facilities from core transport.

Related concepts include Telecommunications, Circuit Switching and Packet Switching.

Additional Resource: FCC Telecommunications Overview.