| By :
Dirik Hameed
In 2001 an international organization known as the Metro Ethernet Forum was formed. The main areas of focus for the organization include the operation of Carrier Ethernet networks and related services and products. It comprises of all players with interests in the Metro Ethernet sector such as users and providers of the service. The establishment of this organization was aimed at providing a forum for sharing technical information, the use and adaptation of Ethernet networks and services globally. Manufacturers, vendors of the hardware used in Metro Ethernet, software developers, Carrier Ethernet providers, network testing companies and users of the service are among the members of the organization. Computer networks that offer internet and communication connections in Metropolis or the big cities are also referred to as Metro Ethernets. Metro Ethernets is a cost effective option for businesses that wish to use internet connections, link with their branches while maximizing the use of computing resources. Services offered to clients using the technology are of international standards. It improves the quality of service delivery to the user by the providers by adopting the latest and most efficient processes. Through Metro Ethernet, users are able to use a large number of communication options and services that include data, audio and video. The Metro Ethernet Forum brings together members and invited guests interested in Carrier Ethernet by organizing meetings and events. There are quarterly, annual and special event meetings that are put together and managed by the Forum. With an aim of promoting metro networks worldwide, the meetings are held in different parts of the world. The Metro Ethernet Forum diary includes conferences and tradeshows, which form an important part of the organization's agenda. Ethernet services require white papers that provide technical specifications, which the Metro Ethernet is charged with producing. A technical committee of the Metro Ethernet Forum compiles, drafts, deliberate and pass the quality and specifications of the white papers. Different types and capabilities of Ethernet services available are defined by the white papers. Service levels, characteristics and capabilities are some of the expectations of the users of Ethernet from the service providers and the white papers are very useful to the clients in giving guidance. There are currently more than 25 white papers that offer technical specifications that follow on the progressive development of Ethernet technology. One important role by the Metro Ethernet Forum is certification. This provides a central and universally acceptable program that evaluates and certifies the different components involved in the delivery of Metro Ethernet. Professionals, equipment and service standards applied in providing the services are all certified. Metro Ethernet providers need to be supported and managed by individuals who possess the skills , knowledge and are fully competent and have been certified. Equipments used in these networks need to meet specific standards and only the certified ones are used. Certification of service standards ensures that the service providers are meeting the Metro Ethernet Forum standards and are capable of providing efficient services to the users.
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