Metro Ethernet

A typical service provider's network is a collection of switches and routers connected through optical fiber.

MPLS-based deployments are costly but highly reliable and scalable and are typically used by large service providers.

In some situations the cost may not warrant the benefits, particularly if sub 50ms convergence time is already being achieved with pure Ethernet.

Metro Wireless providers in many cases are able to produce shorter installation times due to less permitting and procedure necessary.

[citation needed] In late September 2007 Verizon Business announced metro Ethernet across Asia-Pacific including Australia, Singapore, Japan and Hong Kong using Nortel equipment.

[9] In late January 2009, Windstream announced it would begin offering metro Ethernet service to small and medium business customers.

[10] In May 2011, Comcast announced its own metro Ethernet services to business customers in the United States.