ABSTRACT: This Technical Reference (TR) contains an overview of the maintenance process that is common to all Network Elements (NEs) (i.e., switching, circuit, packet, Integrated Services Digital Network [ISDN], and transport).

Maintenance is the overall process applied to the network to minimize the effects of failures on network performance while providing personnel with the information and tools required to quickly locate and repair the trouble.

The maintenance process consists of both preventive and corrective maintenance. Preventive maintenance includes routine scheduled maintenance activities designed to prevent troubles as well as routine tests and analysis of performance data that may be used to identify potential troubles before they affect service. Corrective maintenance consists of detecting a failure and effecting the appropriate repair activities.

This TR defines proposed requirements and objectives for an effective maintenance process.