Ethernet-centric networking : Convergence, scalability, flexibility, and manageability

The Ethernet technoglogy rapidly gains importance as becoming a dominant solution for a converged transport network. Recently added features such as QoS handling and OAM functions in the framework of ITU-T NGN provides a means for performance improvement to meet carrier-class network requirements. In addition, integration with newly developed T-MPLS by ITU-T offers a potential to replace current SDH/SONET-based network infrasctructure.