PEPPOL ACCESS POINTS
Discover everything you need to know about Peppol Access Points: the essential infrastructure behind the Peppol network and who uses this technology
Fundamentals
What is a Peppol Access Point?
An Access Point is the infrastructural enabler that makes the Peppol network possible behind the scenes - an indispensable link in the chain.
- Document validation
- Connection security
- Format support
- Reliable delivery
Who uses Access Points?
Primarily software vendors, not end users:
- E-invoicing portal providers
- ERP and accounting software makers
- Integration platform providers
- Accounting software vendors
For smaller businesses
Access Points are less relevant for smaller businesses or companies with simple needs. They prefer ready-made solutions with multi-network connectivity.
How does the Peppol network work in practice?
Organizations & Service Providers
Underlying Technology
Organizations work through their software, while Service Providers manage the Access Points that handle the actual Peppol communication
Which Access Point approach suits you?
Different Implementation Models
External Access Point
Software vendors connect their application to an existing Access Point from a Peppol Service Provider:
- Fast time-to-market
- Less technical complexity
- Third-party dependency
- Shared infrastructure
Own Access Point
Software vendors can choose to become a Peppol Service Provider themselves and host their own Access Point:
- Full control over infrastructure
- Direct integration with own software
- More technical investment required
- OpenPeppol certification needed
White-label Access Point
Some Peppol Service Providers offer Access Point technology through white-label constructions:
- Retain own branding
- Faster implementation
- Shared technical foundation
- Flexible business models
💡 Important to know
Access Points vs. end-user solutions: Smaller businesses rarely work directly with Access Points. They choose e-invoicing portals, ERP software, accounting systems, or integration platforms that often provide multi-network connectivity (Peppol, but also other networks). The Access Point technology then works invisibly in the background.
Frequently Asked Questions
Considering Peppol integration?
As a software vendor, integration platform, or service provider looking to add Peppol functionality, choosing the right Access Point strategy is crucial for your success.
At Peppol.nu, we're happy to help you explore the different possibilities and find the best approach for your situation.