Triple-Play Service Deployment

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Chapter 2: Triple-Play Service Delivery over Ethernet Networks
Understanding the Inherent Benefits of Ethernet Technology
The importance of Ethernet networks in triple-play offerings stems
from its evolution from the local area network (LAN) environment,
to the metropolitan area network (MAN), and wide area network
(WAN) environments. Ethernet is a technology of choice for many
providers dealing with building convergent networks required to
carry next generation services. With the evolution of voice, video,
and data services, the traditional public switched telephone
network (PSTN), along with traditional ATM deployments for
virtual private network (VPN)/data offerings have proven to be
inadequate in transporting these services. Therefore, the need to
deploy cost-effective networks with scalable characteristics that
can both provide a path for future growth and utilize economies
of scale is pivotal.
As a result, the industry has come together to develop standards
and design new network elements, services, and service attributes
that will enable Ethernet to become a carrier workhorse for building
ubiquitous converged networks to carry triple-play services.
The Ciena CN 5060 Multiservice Carrier Ethernet Platform is an example of a network element
that offers robust packet services switching and aggregation for Ethernet and existing services
today while providing the flexibility to scale to meet future service delivery requirements.
(Photo courtesy of Ciena)