Network Element Functions

A typical telecommunication network consists of exchanges and transmission systems. In TMN terminology, exchanges and transmission systems are examples of network elements (NEs).

The functions that are performed by NEs are `Network Element Functions' (NEFs). According to TMN, these functions include:

• Primary (or telecommunications) functions. These functions are the subject of management and support the exchange of data between the users of the telecommunication network.
• Management functions, which allow the NEF block to operate in an agent specific role.

As opposed to the second kind, the first kind of functions are not further defined by TMN. This explains why Figure 5 locates the NEF at the edge of the TMN.