Key Characteristics Of Metro-Ethernet / Metro E
Wide Area Network (WAN)
Connectivity: Metro Ethernet enables organizations to connect geographically dispersed sites within a metropolitan area using Ethernet technology. It provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional WAN technologies like T1/E1 lines or Frame Relay.
Ethernet Standards
Metro Ethernet utilizes Ethernet standards, such as IEEE 802.3, to provide compatibility with existing Ethernet infrastructure. This simplifies deployment and integration with existing network equipment, including switches, routers, and network interface cards.
Quality of Service (QoS)
Metro Ethernet supports QoS mechanisms to prioritize and control network traffic. It allows organizations to allocate bandwidth based on specific requirements and ensure that critical applications receive the necessary network resources for optimal performance.
High Reliability
Metro Ethernet networks are designed to be highly reliable and resilient. Service providers often deploy redundant network elements and employ protocols such as Ethernet Ring Protection Switching (ERPS) or Ethernet Automatic Protection Switching (EAPS) to minimize network downtime in the event of a failure.
SLA and Service Guarantees
Metro Ethernet services are often provided by service providers under SLAs, which define the terms and guarantees for service performance. SLAs typically include metrics such as uptime, availability, latency, and jitter to ensure the reliability and performance of the Metro Ethernet service.
Cost-Effective
Metro Ethernet can be more cost-effective than traditional WAN technologies. It offers a flat-rate pricing model based on bandwidth, allowing organizations to achieve significant cost savings compared to paying for individual leased lines or circuits between locations.
SCALABILITY
Metro Ethernet networks can scale easily to accommodate increasing bandwidth requirements. They support high-speed connections ranging from a few Mbps to multiple Gbps, allowing organizations to scale their network capacity as needed.
Ethernet Virtual Private Line (EVPL) and Virtual Private LAN Service (VPLS)
Metro Ethernet can provide EVPL and VPLS services. EVPL offers point-to-point connections between two sites, while VPLS extends LAN connectivity across multiple sites, providing a virtual LAN environment over the Metro Ethernet network.
Easy Network Management
Metro Ethernet simplifies network management through centralized control and monitoring. Network administrators can easily provision, monitor, and manage network connections using familiar Ethernet-based tools and protocols.
Convergence
Metro Ethernet supports the convergence of multiple services over a single network infrastructure. Voice, data, and video traffic can all be carried over the same Metro Ethernet network, providing a unified and cost-effective solution for various communication needs.
