Peppol Access Points | Peppol.nu

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

Sending Organization
Service Provider A
Service Provider B
Receiving Organization

Underlying Technology

Sending Organization Software
Access Point A
Access Point B
Receiving Organization Software

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

When do I need an Access Point as a software vendor?
If you want to integrate Peppol functionality into your software, you need access to an Access Point. This can be through an existing provider, by becoming a Service Provider yourself, or through a white-label solution.
Should I become a Peppol Service Provider myself?
This depends on your strategy. Having your own Access Point gives you full control but requires more investment and certification. Many vendors start with an external provider and later consider their own solution.
What's the difference between Access Points and multi-network platforms?
Access Points are specific to Peppol. Multi-network platforms often provide access to multiple e-invoicing networks (Peppol, national platforms, etc.) through a single integration, which is particularly attractive for end users.
How do white-label Access Point solutions work?
With white-label solutions, you get access to Access Point technology under your own brand name. You maintain the customer relationship while the technical infrastructure is managed by the provider.

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.