Definition

virtual circuit

A virtual circuit is a circuit or path between points in a network that appears to be a discrete, physical path but is actually a managed pool of circuit resources from which specific circuits are allocated as needed to meet traffic requirements.

A permanent virtual circuit (PVC) is a virtual circuit that is permanently available to the user just as though it were a dedicated or leased line continuously reserved for that user. A switched virtual circuit (SVC) is a virtual circuit in which a connection session is set up for a user only for the duration of a connection. PVCs are an important feature of frame relay networks and SVCs are proposed for later inclusion.

Related glossary terms: system administrator (sysadmin), ring, Internet, keystone jack, corporate area network (CAN), port, home server, LANDesk Client Manager (LDCM), HomeRF (home radio frequency), local access and transport area (LATA)

This was last updated in September 2006

Posted by: Margaret Rouse

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