CNI stands for "Common Network Interface" or "Customer Network Interface." It is a term commonly used in the telecommunications industry to refer to the physical point of connection between the service provider's network and the customer's network or premises.
In the context of telecommunication services, a CNI serves as the entry and exit point for the delivery of various network services to the customer's site. It may include devices, equipment, or interfaces that facilitate the transmission of voice, data, or other communication services. This connection point can vary based on the type of service being provided, such as Ethernet, DSL, fiber optics, or traditional copper-based services.
The CNI is typically located at the demarcation point, which is the boundary that separates the service provider's responsibility from the customer's responsibility for maintaining the network. At the CNI, the service provider is responsible for ensuring the proper functioning of their network up to the demarcation point, while the customer assumes responsibility for their own internal network or equipment beyond the CNI.
The CNI may consist of physical components like network termination equipment, modems, or routers, as well as protocols or standards that govern the communication between the service provider and customer network. It is an essential component in establishing and maintaining reliable telecommunications services, as it serves as the primary connection point between the service provider's network infrastructure and the customer's premises or network.
