An information transfer node (ITN) is a physical location on a communications network where high-speed data network and telephone equipment are located. The ITN is usually part of the core layer of a network and contains devices that move information in the most expedient manner possible. It is advisable that the ITN have backup power and that ITNs exist in at least a partial mesh for reliability and fail-over purposes. The distribution and access layers of a network topology generally branch out from an ITN that is in the same geographic area. ITNs are used on Campus Area Networks (CAN's), Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN's), and, to a lesser extent, Local Area Networks (LAN's).
For the core, distribution, and access layers of a network topology, see router.