The communication market is being driven by the convergence of networks for data- and telecommunication and rapid deployment of IP based networks in Metro Area, Enterprise and Access Networks.

The requirements for system and component vendors are changing. Multi-protocol and multi-service based platforms require a high level of reliability and flexibility.

An efficient and flexible network management is a key success factor for carriers to stay competitive. Equipment vendors are forced to carefully design their systems to address the plug and play characteristics of an Ethernet based network and the reliability of a telecommunication network.