Metro ethernet is an ethernet transport network. What does it do? It provides multipoint connectivity over a city area network. Metro ethernet began as a LAN technology and then become a substitute for WAN technologies.
Many businesses and mobile subscribers use metro ethernet to connect business offices or data centers, to provide connectivity to public cloud data centers, to connect to the Internet or for multicast delivery for video conferencing.
Metro Ethernet Benefits
The use of metro ethernet has gained momentum in popularity due to its many benefits. Keep in mind that through multiple network functions, metro ethernet is able to avoid widespread outages because the physical systems are independent of each other. This gives users:
- Flexibility — There is total support for a wide variety of transports.
- Reliability — Ethernet operations measure performance and detect and report any connection failures.
- Cost-Effectiveness — All around, metro ethernet services lower ownership and equipment costs.
- Easy Usage — Metro ethernet is less complicated and simpler to maintain when compared to WAN networks.
- Scalability — Metro ethernet is easier when it comes to increasing bandwidth. It can often be done without having to purchase or install new equipment.
- Increased Quality — There’s an increase in quality of service with metro ethernet, as it supports QoS features like classification and queuing. It provides seamless integration of multiple systems.
The ethernet has been around for a while. As a matter of fact, this year marks its 40th anniversary. Since its introduction, the ethernet has made it possible for networking smartphones, personal computers, streaming video and tablets. And the ethernet won’t be stepping down anytime soon. It’s the world’s most widely used connectivity technology. The ethernet continues to progress in quality, security and speed as it progresses.
The ethernet continues to show its moxie. For example, the ethernet is what allows for multiple in-car systems like infotainment, collision warnings and comfort controls. Without a doubt, the ethernet won’t be slowing down anytime soon. It keeps coming out on top.
So, who’s using metro ethernet today? The answer is local businesses, individual users, government agencies, corporations and academic institutions. Just about everyone has jumped on board. The metro ethernet allows these organizations to connect branch offices using mesh network topology with individual servers or routers through fiber-optic media or cable.
Video-based applications, enterprise disaster recovery and data replication have continued to push the need for the metro ethernet. Plus, cloud-based services, the growth of mobile and the growth of telecommuting have pushed the bandwidth requirement in the WAN. There is a definite need to consolidate data centers and service centers between headquarter sites and remote sites. The solution is metro ethernet for small, medium and large enterprises. As the demand for high-performance continues to grow, so will the metro ethernet.
