What Are Metro Networks?
Metro networks connect a multitude of services including that of cloud-based services. With a managed network everything needs to be linked in one way or another and metro networks could be the key to doing so.
Metropolitan Area Network
A metropolitan area network commonly referred to as MAN is an interconnected network that covers an area larger than LAN (local area network) but smaller than WAN (wide area network). As the name suggests a metropolitan area network (MAN) is typically used to connect multiple networks in a city to a larger single network creating a Managed desktop. By connecting to a MAN the access to a WAN (wide area network) is then made simple for companies wanting to connect over an extensive distance.
Metro Ethernet
Sometimes referred to as a carrier ethernet, metro ethernet is used to identify networking technology used in metropolitan area networks (MAN). As far as metro ethernet goes as a service, it is driven by the metro ethernet forum which is also known as MEF. Most of the time metro ethernet is used as a metropolitan access network which connects the users to the internet or a larger network service similar to MAN. It uses a collection of switches from the second and third layer as well as routers that are connected through an optical fiber. A metro ethernet can be easily connected to a customer network and also supports high bandwidths. Compared with SDH (synchronous digital hierarchy) or MPLS (multi-protocol label switching), metro ethernet is a much more cost-effective solution. So in hindsight, the individual networks will connect to the metropolitan area network (MAN) and then, they are connected to each other via metro ethernet. This setup enables quick scalability without the need to provide it. The network industry is actively evolving and is an important factor for many managed networks.
National Ethernet
Usually, a metro ethernet will cover a distance of around 25km. Meaning networks within a 25km radius of each other can be connected via a metro ethernet. If you are looking to create a managed network over a larger distance, then national ethernet is the way to go. Metro Ethernet and national ethernet are similar to LAN (local area network) and WAN (wide area network) in the sense that the metro ethernet or LAN will cover a more local area and a national ethernet and WAN will cover a wider area.
The Benefits Of Metro Networks
Nowadays data is a big concern in IT, it’s a vital part of businesses, but it can take a lot of software and Managed infrastructure services to control. Creating a metro network encourages large volumes of data and enables point-to-point or multipoint connections. Typically, a metro network will support a high capacity bandwidth of up to 1gb. This feature can also be applied temporarily. Depending on the business bursts of increased bandwidth may be required for a short period of time in which case an IT service provider could deliver that in real time. Not only that but bandwidth options can be chosen by increments. With the assistance of managed security services, a metro network is generally a lot more secure than other networks and is extremely reliable. As mentioned earlier metro networks is a very cost-effective solution which not only reduces costs but also simplifies network management as a whole. Along with managed services and managed security services, the overall IT costs for a business can be easily predicted. Making recurring costs manageable with a lesser chance of unexpected expenses. Metro networks maintain a high-performance level and work to improve network availability.
A metro network is a stable investment for businesses to create a managed network. The scalability factor of it supports business growth and the flexibility surrounding it. With managed security services in play, the network and the private connection remains secure with additional network support available from the service provider whenever it is needed.