What is a Peppol Access Point? - Complete Guide - Peppol.nu

What is a Peppol Access Point?

An Access Point is the technical gateway that connects your system to the international Peppol network. Understand what it is, how it works and why you need one for e-invoicing via Peppol.

A Peppol Access Point is a technical functionality - like a port or gateway - that enables your business software to securely communicate with the global Peppol network.

Technical Gateway

An Access Point is the technical connection between your accounting system and the Peppol network. It ensures secure document exchange.

Certified & Secure

All Access Points are officially certified by the Peppol authorities and use secure connections for reliable exchange.

Automatic Processing

The Access Point automatically validates, routes and confirms receipt of documents without manual intervention.

What is a Peppol Access Point Exactly?

A Peppol Access Point is actually a technical functionality - comparable to a smart postman who handles your digital mail. It's not a company or organization, but a piece of technology that provides the connection between your system and the global Peppol network.

Important clarification: An Access Point is a functionality, not a role! It's the technical infrastructure that is offered by Peppol Service Providers. Think of the Access Point as the "mailbox" and the Service Provider as the "postal service" that manages this mailbox.

What does an Access Point do?

The Tasks of an Access Point

  1. Receive: Accept invoices from your accounting system
  2. Validate: Check if the invoice is correctly formatted
  3. Encrypt: Secure the invoice for transport
  4. Route: Send the invoice to the correct recipient
  5. Confirm: Report back that the invoice has been delivered
  6. Archive: Keep a copy in accordance with legal requirements

The Access Point works completely automatically. As soon as you send an invoice from your accounting system, the Access Point takes over and ensures that the invoice reaches the recipient within seconds - regardless of which country they are located in or which software they use.

Difference: Access Point vs Service Provider

It's important to understand the difference between the technical functionality (Access Point) and the companies that offer it (Service Providers):

Aspect Peppol Access Point Peppol Service Provider
What is it? Technical functionality/gateway Company that offers the functionality
Role Automatic document processing Support, management and service
What you buy Access to the technology Complete service delivery
Contact No direct contact possible Customer service and support
Certification Technology is certified Company is Peppol certified
Practical example: If you want internet, you don't buy an "internet cable" but an internet subscription from a provider. Similarly, you don't buy an "Access Point" but a Peppol service from a Service Provider that offers Access Point functionality.

Different Ways to Get Access Point Functionality

Built into Software

Many accounting software packages already have Access Point functionality built in. You then activate Peppol within your familiar system.

Standalone Service

Separate Peppol service that you connect to your existing software via an API or web portal.

Managed Service

Complete outsourcing where the Service Provider provides both the technology and the management.

Via Intermediary

Your accountant or ICT partner arranges and manages the Peppol connection on your behalf.

What suits you?

  • Small businesses: Often sufficient with built-in functionality in accounting software
  • Medium-sized businesses: Standalone service for more control and functionality
  • Large organizations: Managed service or custom integration
  • Beginners: Via accountant or ICT partner for support

For the Tech-Savvy: How Does it Work?

For those who want to know more about the technical workings of an Access Point:

Technical Protocols

  • AS4: The transport protocol for secure message exchange
  • UBL 2.1: The document format for standardized invoices
  • SML/SMP: Directory services to find recipients
  • PKI: Digital certificates for authentication

Certification & Compliance

Each Access Point must:

  • Be certified by a Peppol Authority
  • Comply with the Peppol Transport Infrastructure (PTI) specifications
  • Be regularly tested for interoperability
  • Guarantee 24/7 availability
No worries about technology: As an end user, you don't need to worry about these technical details. Your Service Provider ensures that everything works correctly and stays up-to-date.

Ready to get started with Peppol?

Now that you understand what an Access Point is, you can choose the right Service Provider for your organization. Compare different providers and find the best solution for your situation.

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