Method and system for telephony and high speed data access on a broadband access network

This invention relates to the field of broadband access networks, and more specifically to a method and system for telephony and high speed data access on a broadband access network. A system and method for providing telephony and high speed data access over a broadband access network, comprising a network interface unit (NIU) coupled to a backup local exchange carrier (LEC) line, the broadband access network coupled to the NIU, an intermediate point-of-presence (IPOP) coupled to the broadband access network, and at least one external access network coupled to the IPOP. The system also provides for a fail-safe mode in which the NIU supports the LEC line for lifeline services.