Making the Case for Testing Ethernet Links

Overview

This paper describes the parameters to test on an Ethernet link and explains why they must be tested. Specifically it describes the four key parameters that affect any Ethernet or Internet Protocol (IP) link: throughput, frame loss, latency, and jitter. Then it explores the issues that cause these problems as well as the proper testing methodologies used to ensure successful deployment of an Ethernet metropolitan (MAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN) link.