7 (SS7) protocol suite, typically layered on top of the Transaction Capabilities Application Part (TCAP).
It can also be termed as logic for controlling telecommunication services migrated from traditional switching points to computer based service independent platform.
The telephone exchange uses Transaction Capabilities Application Part (TCAP), Signaling Connection and Control Part (SCCP) and INAP and in IN terms is a service switching point (SSP).
The SCP returns an INAP Connect message, which contains a geographic number to forward the call to.
Extended form of INAP is Customised Applications for Mobile networks Enhanced Logic (CAMEL).