The test methodology applies to point-to-point and point-to-multipoint connectivity in the Ethernet layer and to the network portions that provide, or contribute to, the provisioning of such services.
The Internet Engineering Task Force RFC 2544 is a benchmarking methodology for network interconnect devices.
The ITU Y.156sam defines three key test rates based on the MEF service attributes for Ethernet virtual circuit (EVC) and user-to-network interface (UNI) bandwidth profiles.
These rates can be associated to color markings: The ITU-T Y.156sam is built around two key subtests, the service configuration test and the service performance test, which are performed in order: Forwarding devices such as switches, routers, bridges and network interface units are the basis of any network as they interconnect segments.
The Y.156sam focuses on the following KPIs for service quality: The ITU-T Y.1564 (previously Y.156sam) has gained momentum in the test and measurement industry.