virtual circuit (VC)

virtual circuit (VC): A communications arrangement in which data from a source user may be passed to a destination user over various real circuit configurations during a single period of communication. Note: Virtual circuits are generally set up on a per-call basis and are disconnected when the call is terminated; however, a permanent virtual circuit can be established as an option to provide a dedicated link between two facilities. Synonyms logical circuit, logical route.

This HTML version of Telecom Glossary 2K was last generated on Wed May 8 15:36:48 DT 2002.