"This book describes the transformation of telecommunications from national network monopolies to a new system, the network of networks, and the glue that holds it together, interconnection.".

"Taking a broad, multidisciplinary perspective, Eli Noam discusses the importance and history of interconnection policy, as well as recent policy reforms both within the United States and around the globe. Other important topics he discusses include interconnection prices, the unbundling of interconnection, and the technology of interconnection.

He concludes with an examination of social and policy issues, including the free flow of content, universal service and privacy protection, and the future of telecommunications."--BOOK JACKET.