As service providers seek innovative ways to evolve networks toward packet optimization, converged Ethernet transport has emerged as an effective solution for accommodating the growth of IP in metro networks. Converged Ethernet transport networks are enabled by packet optical networking platforms, a solution that combines fully–featured Ethernet aggregation, switching, and transport with OTN/DWDM.

Converged Ethernet transport is an ideal metro networking solution for achieving flexibility, manageability, high performance, and economics in Triple Play, business data services, and wireless backhaul applications. The solution provides a deterministic, multiservice, highly reliable infrastructure to accommodate both packet traffic and service requirements, especially when compared to other approaches for next–generation metro networks.

The key elements of Ciena’s FlexSelect Architecture provide a true converged Ethernet transport solution for wireline and wireless operators as well as enterprises and government agencies. The CN 4200 is an ideal packet optical networking solution. The platform’s ability to provide Layer 0/1 transport, OTN switching, and ROADM/DWR functionality–coupled with the Layer 2 Ethernet intelligence of the G10/G10X modules–enables the construction of converged Ethernet transport infrastructures.