Front-end processor

Early communications controllers such as the IBM 270x series were hard wired, but later units were programmable devices.

As an example, the user enters a URL into a GUI (front-end process) such as Microsoft Internet Explorer.

With the advent of the Internet and of IP as a universal protocol, it is often assumed that there is no longer any need for FEPs,[3] which traditionally handled SNA traffic.

The need for these functions is especially important in mission-critical transaction environments such as banking, government, point-of-sale, security, and healthcare applications.

Smaller companies have filled the void created by IBM's action, providing machines, features, parts and services worldwide.