A low-entry networking (LEN) node is a type 2.1 node that can function in both a subarea and an APPN environment. VTAM® and any NCPs that it owns can present the image of a composite LEN node. It appears as a single node to all LEN or APPN nodes to which it is attached.

A LEN node provides peer-to-peer connectivity to subarea nodes, end nodes, or network nodes that are providing a LEN appearance. Unlike end nodes, the LEN node cannot establish CP-CP sessions with a network node. Therefore, a LEN node cannot automatically register its resources with a network node server.

A VTAM acting as a LEN node cannot establish SSCP-SSCP sessions across T2.1 connections with a VTAM subarea node. A LEN node can attach to a subarea network as a peripheral node. In a subarea network, LEN nodes can communicate with other LEN nodes without requiring the services of an SSCP.

In an APPN network, you can predefine the CP name of a network node adjacent to a LEN node, which enables the LEN node to send a BIND to the adjacent node. The adjacent node determines the actual location of the LU, calculates the route to it, and forwards the BIND.