(VAN) A privately owned network that provides a specific service, such as legal research or access to a specialised database, for a fee. A Value Added Network usually offers some service or information that is not readily available on public networks. A Value Added Network' s customers typically purchase {leased lines} that connect them to the network or they use a {dial-up number}, given by the network owner, to gain access to the network. (1998-11-10)
