For basic-rate access in an Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) environment, a user-to-network interface reference point that is characterized by the use of a 2-wire-loop transmission system that (a) conveys information between the 4-wire user-to-network interface, i.e., the S/T reference point, and the local exchange, (b) is located in the servicing central office, and (c) is not as distance sensitive as a service using a T interface.