Fast and functional, carrier Ethernet technology is the foundation for next-generation networks around the world. Carrier Ethernet: Providing the Need for Speed introduces this networking technology, which can accelerate the delivery of industry standard products and services to the end user. It presents the capabilities of this technology and shows how it improves network performance compared to other technologies. Ensuring seamless migration to carrier Ethernet from existing technologies, the text describes various services that can be enabled over an Ethernet infrastructure, including integration with emerging technologies such as resilient packet ring (RPR) and SONET/SDH.