Bandwidth to Support Convergence
Convergence means combining or converging voice, data and video
onto a single network. Enterprises usually need to expand their
LAN bandwidth and set up a QoS or Quality of Service priority
system to give priority to real-time streams such as telephone
calls or video conference feeds, which are more sensitive to network
delays than data transfers. Most often, the common protocol for
convergence is IP.
How is PoE used for IP Phones?
PoE or Power over Ethernet is a standard that defines a way to
transmit electric power to network devices as well as information
packets. When PoE equipment is installed in equipment lockers,
an IP telephone gets its power from the network and does not need
a separate AC power supply.
Where does a VPN make sense?
A VPN or Virtual Private Network is a security technique to allow
public networks, like the Internet, to be used for secure private
data transmission. Since Internet access is almost universally
available, using VPN software to encrypt data into private tunnels
is more cost effective than building a fully meshed network to
connect many locations.
What is QoS and how do you
get it?
QoS means Quality of Service. Most often you hear about QoS when
referring to converged networks that transport both packet voice
and data. QoS mechanisms may include prioritizing voice packets
over data because voice is much more affected by latency and jitter.
What is Mid-Band Ethernet?
Mid-Band Ethernet is a WAN or Wide Area Network technology that
delivers 2 to 45 Mbps over existing copper pair wiring. This bandwidth
range falls neatly in between T1 lines at 1.5 Mbps and DS3 service,
usually provided over fiber optic carriers, at 45 Mbps. As a native
Ethernet delivery system, mid-band Ethernet offers an easy way
to extend the corporate network beyond the premises.