A point of presence ( PoP ) is an artificial demarcation point or interface point between communicating entities. A common example is an Internet point of presence, the local access point that allows users to connect to the Internet with their Internet service provider (ISP). [1] A PoP typically houses servers , routers , network switches , multiplexers, and other network interface equipment, and is typically located in a data center . ISPs typically have multiple PoPs. PoPs are often located at Internet exchange points and colocation centres . [2] In the US, this term became important during the court-ordered breakup of the Bell Telephone system . A point of presence was a location where a long-distance carrier (IXC) could terminate services and provide connections into a local telephone network ( LATA ). [3]