interexchange carrier (IXC)

1. (or IC):
1. A communications common carrier authorized to provide interexchange telecommunications services within world zone 1 using the North American numbering plan. [After T1.104-1988]
2. A telecommunications common carrier authorized to provide telecommunications services between LATAs. [After T1.502-1988] [T1.508-1998] Note: The term “interexchange carrier” is also used to refer to any other entity that connects to the exchange access network at a point of termination (POT). [After T1.506-1989]
3. A carrier that provides connections between LATAs, where the calling or called customer is located in the United States. Note: This definition has no Canadian equivalent. However, the term “interexchange carrier” is used in the context of a carrier that provides connections extending across borders to carriers in the United States. [T1.209-1998] Synonyms [loosely] carrier, common carrier, commercial carrier, communications carrier.