Results and lessons from the operation of current beams for neutrino experiments

An overview of the exploitation of accelerator neutrino beam facilities is presented. Emphasis is given on the elements of the secondary beam, i.e. the target and the equipment downstream of it. Using the examples of K2K, MiniBooNE, NuMI and CNGS, a number of lessons learnt in operating these neutrino beams are outlined. The T2K facility, presently under construction, is included in this overview.