Market Overview: European Ethernet Services

Almost 40% of European enterprises are now deploying carrier Ethernet services, with particular interest in VPLS-based Ethernet LAN (E-LAN) services. However, don't assume all service providers are the same — they're not. Infrastructure and operations (I&O) managers need to pay close attention to service type, geographic availability, and service levels offered, all of which vary widely. However, the geographic availability story is changing rapidly; new developments, including Ethernet NNIs and Ethernet Exchanges, will enable the smaller providers to offer full European coverage by interconnecting their networks with class-of-service transparency. Type of services also varies; some providers don't yet offer VPLS-based E-LAN services, while others have only just launched them. Today, most service providers' standard offers are unmanaged services and their SLAs are POP-to-POP. This is rapidly changing in favor of managed services and end-to-end SLAs. SLAs for availability, installation, and repair times vary widely, as do prices. What's all this mean? Ethernet in Europe is still an immature market, so evaluate offers carefully to choose the best supplier for you.