FirstLight introduces Ethernet Access services

FirstLight Fiber, a service provider operating fiber-optic networks in Upstate New York and Northern New England with connectivity to Canada, says it is now offering industry standards compliant Ethernet Access service across its entire network footprint.

Ethernet Access service is a Carrier Ethernet 2.0 –based product that enables service providers to extend their reach and serve customers' remote locations. FirstLight says its Layer 2 Ethernet service is designed in accordance with industry standards to ensure end-to-end, high-quality, and reliable Ethernet connections and is available in point-to-point, point-to-multipoint, and multipoint-to-multipoint configurations.

An Ethernet Access service (formally defined as MEF 33 E-Access service type) is presently the only service to be defined from an External Network Node Interface (ENNI) to a User Network Interface (UNI). The Ethernet Access service provided by FirstLight is deliberately simplified with two optional services that include a port-based service at the UNI (Access EPL); and a VLAN-aware service at the UNI (Access EVPL).

FirstLight says the Ethernet Access service meets carriers’ requirement to deliver IT applications in a predictable and consistent manner irrespective of the remote end-user location, ensuring a consistent delivery and quality of service. From the end user's perspective, the wholesale carrier provides the complete package, maintaining quality of service across the network. From the carrier's perspective, they are able to choose a single location to connect to the FirstLight network, and from there, leverage FirstLight's 1400 on-net locations and 10,000 near-net locations to serve their customers.

"Enhancing our already robust portfolio of Metro Ethernet solutions, FirstLight's offering of Ethernet Access service represents our company's ongoing commitment to support our carrier customers with the newest, most progressive technologies," said Brian Kurkowski, CTO of FirstLight. "Few carriers have ubiquitous networks, so being able to leverage FirstLight's extensive fiber network throughout Upstate New York and Northern New England will allow our carrier customers to better serve their clients. FirstLight's Metro Ethernet service, now enhanced with Ethernet Access service, meets the industry's highest standards, and is the reliable, scalable solution needed to help our wholesale customers provide the comprehensive solutions their clients require."

For more information on Carrier Ethernet equipment and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide.