Public switched telephone network (PSTN),

Definition of Public switched telephone network (PSTN):

1. The network of telephone circuits that are accessible by the public and require the setting up of a dedicated connection between the calling and the called numbers for the duration of each call.

2. Regular telephone service that gives a dial tone, and the ability to dial up any phone number for analog (voice) or digital (data) communications over ordinary telephone lines. This service sets up a path (circuit) between the calling and the called party, and maintains it for the duration of the call. Also called public switched network.