VANS

Abstract

This chapter describes value-added network services (Vans) which involves any service that uses a network and provides some facility additional to the network infrastructure. Well-established types of Vans include videotex services, such as British Telecom's Prestel and Istel's Infotrac. Added value, herein, is the presentation and access software. Electronic mail services such as Telecom Gold and One-to-One are also Vans. Electronic data interchange (EDI) services also come in this category. Although Vans have been in existence for many years, the term came into use only in 1981 as a consequence of the deregulation of British Telecom. In that year, the Government defined the terms under which Vans could operate in the new environment and established a licensing procedure