A Network Element is a term used for various types of equipment in the Telco world, all of which interface to Digital Signal Lines. In simplest terms, a network element is a piece of telecommunications equipment that provides support or services to the user, but they can become quite complex. One type of network element is a SONET (Synchronous Optical NETwork). Essentially, a SONET is a multiplexer, designed to transport circuit mode communications (e.g., DS1, DS3) from a variety of different sources. It multiplexes high speed digital bits over fiber optic cable and then converts these back to electronic impulses. The term OC-192 refers to the conversion of data from optical to 192 DS-3 circuits. Cross connects, digital switches, modems, routers are also considered Network Elements.