The gradual migration from circuit to packet networking has created what are essential hybrid networks, with newer technologies like Ethernet moving in, but stalwarts like SONET still holding their own. That has put pressure on network equipment vendors to create hybrid circuit-packet gear, the latest examples being Tellabs' addition of native Ethernet capabilities to its 7100 reconfigurable add/drop multiplexer--ROADM.
Equipment vendors are doing yeoman's work at this point, constantly integrating more functionality into existing platforms, but with the caveat from carriers that they must continue to keep a tight belt around costs. The packet transition is a critical step in the evolution of public networks, but who said it was going to be fun?
For more:
- Telephony covers the Tellabs announcement.