What is Ethernet? Understanding Your Network and Cable Options
What are ethernet network solutions?
Ethernet solutions has long been a cornerstone of networking, standing the test of time (with the help of some technological advancements and revisions) since its creation all the way back in the 1970s. The traditional option for connecting devices in a local network via a wired connection, Ethernet has continued to offer key business benefits such as speed, reliability and security to organizations with disparate offices, campuses or branch locations like banks, universities or enterprises.
Ethernet Network Solutions: E-Line, E-LAN, and E-Access
Ethernet is a cost-effective technology even for more modern use cases, and its high-performance results ensure even aggressive innovation can be sustained and new applications can be leveraged. In short, it’s a great tool in the connectivity arsenal. Still, in a sea of Ethernet acronyms and amidst a range of topologies and network solutions, how can any business team ensure they’re choosing the best option?
To make the selection process simpler and more intuitive, we’ve laid it out for you. Below, find a range of Ethernet network options to learn more about the benefits and applications of each.
E-Line
E-line, otherwise known as Ethernet virtual private line, represents a point-to-point connection that links two physical endpoints. Within this framework, there’s a lot of flexibility to connect these points depending on what the individual use case is. For instance, an enterprise could connect a business location to a data center or to a cloud, or a bank could connect one branch location to another — or even another IT partner. What’s more, multiple E-Lines can be used on a single physical interface, making it a great option for building crucial network connections across a business area.
E-Line might be the simplest of Ethernet options, but it still packs a punch in terms of the ability to send data privately, securely and efficiently to desired locations. However, for businesses with multiple locations that want to boost interconnection between them, the next option might be better suited for use cases that require more scale.
E-LAN and E-Tree
For fast-growing businesses or organizations with plans for growth (or for organizations with larger footprints), E-LAN options present a great opportunity to build an Ethernet network that can grow and scale alongside. Furthermore, if business locations need the ability to interconnect and speak to each other over private networks with low latencies, E-LAN accomplishes this: Enabling any site to talk to any other site directly with a multipoint-to-multipoint arrangement.
On a more nuanced note, E-Tree configurations offer similar capabilities to E-LAN while also allowing customers to dictate which sites will speak to one another. This is accomplished with a routed point-to-multipoint Ethernet virtual connection setup.
E-Access
For carrier use cases, E-Access is a common service option for providing last-mile Ethernet connectivity. In this case, an E-Access circuit is delivered from a network-to-network interface (or network node interface) connection between carriers to a customer location. This enables the carrier to use fiber-delivered Ethernet services as part of a larger network, expanding reach and service capabilities.
Going Beyond the Basics: Ethernet Network Solutions at Glo Fiber Business
Of course, when selecting and deploying successful Ethernet network solutions, looking at pure technical specs and infrastructure capabilities is only half the battle. To truly get the best option and set your organization up for long-term success, looking at the provider behind the solution is just as important as understanding the physical network technology.
At Glo Fiber Business, we know investing in network foundations is crucial — but we also know it can be complex, confusing or even overwhelming. After all, businesses must innovate while maintaining daily operations and catering to their core competencies first. That’s why having a trusted partner and expert on hand makes all the difference.
We deliver state-of-the-art fiber networks and projects led by local, accessible teams to ensure you can always get expert assistance when and where you need it. On top of that, our Ethernet network options provide:
- Redundant core ring configurations
- Industry leading SLAs
- Available speeds from 10 Mbps to 100 Gbps
- Deployment protection options for added diversity
- Failover time of fewer than 50 milliseconds
- 24/7/365 monitored support
- Decades of experience customizing solutions
Whether you need a simple point-to-point or have deeper needs for complex, expertly engineered results, our team is on standby for you.