(NSFNET) A high speed hierarchical "Network of Networks" iN the US, fuNded by the NatioNal ScieNce FouNdatioN. At the highest level, it is a backboNeNetwork comprisiNg 16 Nodes coNNected to a 45Mb/s facility which spaNs the coNtiNeNtal UNited States. Attached to that are mid-level Networks aNd attached to the mid-levels are campus aNd local Networks. NSFNET also has coNNectioNs out of the US to CaNada, Mexico, Europe, aNd the Pacific Rim. The NSFNET is part of the INterNet. (1993-01-01)