Verizon Telecom opts for Nortel metro Ethernet backbone switch

JUNE 11, 2008 -- Verizon Telecom (search for Verizon) has selected Nortel (search for Nortel) to provide a new generation of switching equipment to help Verizon expand its metro Ethernet backbone.

The technology Verizon has chosen is the Metro Ethernet Routing Switch (MERS 8600). This platform provides Provider Backbone Bridge (PBB; search for PBB) technology, MPLS-related technology, and the Metro Ethernet Manager (MEM) system. Verizon will be testing all the MERS technologies in its laboratories for use with its Ethernet-based networks, including the Switched Ethernet Services (SES) network.

The Nortel offering includes PBB and Ethernet OAM technologies. The performance and troubleshooting features built into the MERS 8600 are complemented by MEM, Nortel's network element and service management offering. Service providers can not only use MEM to proactively monitor and manage the network, but also accelerate service enhancements and new service introduction, Nortel says.

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