# Digital loop carrier protocols

Digital loop carrier protocols (DLCPs) outline digital mechanisms for bringing a wide range of services to users through twisted-pair copper phone lines. Remote digital terminals use DLCP protocols to communicate with central office (CO) switches. By utilizing DLCP protocols, new network access gateways can easily interface with CO switches, allowing service providers to implement new services with minimal impact to the installed network infrastructure.

The GR303 and V5.2 DLCP protocols enable carriers to use location-specific remote concentrators in the local loop while increasing the reach of individual switches in the network. In these scenarios, gateways must inter-operate with various types of network equipment while enabling carriers to provide new services. The use of proven protocol stacks enables carriers to deploy innovative services without performing extensive testing on each switch in the network.