For its entire existence as an entity, data networking has been a conglomeration of special interface and protocols. In stark contrast to the "plug and play" simplicity of analog telephony – where you simply attach the cord to an RJ-11 jack on the wall and everything "works," the intrinsic complexity of networking has forever called for specialists. Additionally, this need for special interfaces and protocols has been augmented by a ceaselessly shifting morass of governmental regulations that specified which services may and may not be offered by the "service provider."