Network Strategy Partners Analyses The Passive Optical LAN For Enterprise Networks

May 29, 2009

Concord, MA /PRNewswire/ -- A new study completed by Network Strategy Partners (NSP) compares the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for enterprise networks using the latest all-fiber Passive Optical LAN versus the present mode of operations which uses a two or three-tier switched Ethernet solution.

A call for simplified network operations supporting lower TCO is on the rise within leading enterprise IT organizations around the world. According to the study Transformation of the Enterprise Network Using Passive Optical LAN, the evolution of the enterprise network presents an opportunity for enterprise IT leaders to consider disruptive innovation occurring in the area of enterprise LAN technologies. Specifically incumbent vendors are recommending upgrades to 10GE uplinks, single-mode fiber optic cable and Category 6 cable. The study shows that switching to a proven Passive Optical LAN platform can dramatically reduce TCO as compared to undertaking an upgrade of the present mode of operation or multi-tiered switched Ethernet solution.

"As the enterprise LAN requirements reach the point where upgrades and new builds are required, rethinking LAN technology is called for," said Michael Kennedy, partner of Network Strategy Partners. "Passive Optical LAN with its low capital requirements and minimal use of floor space, power and cooling should definitely be part of any new enterprise LAN deployment consideration."

Study Highlights

Two scenarios are analyzed:

Single-building scenario - A single four-floor enterprise building that provides 1,044 100-Mbps Ethernet connections with a mix of ports used for data, VoIP and wireless access point connections.
Multiple-building scenario - A six-building office park or campus that provides 18,936 100-Mbps Ethernet connections.

Both scenarios use Power over Ethernet (PoE) ports as well as ports without PoE.

The study shows that TCO is 45% less for the single-building scenario and 54% less for the multi-building scenario for the Passive Optical LAN as compared to the present mode of operations. The primary source of savings is the elimination of the workgroup switch (an active network element) by the Passive Optical LAN.

See "Whitepapers" at www.nspllc.com to download the studies.

About Network Strategy Partners

Network Strategy Partners, LLC (NSP) -- management consultants to the networking industry -- helps equipment vendors, service providers, and enterprises around the globe make strategic decisions, mitigate risk and affect change through custom consulting engagements. NSP's consulting includes network security analysis, business case and ROI analysis, go-to-market strategies, development of new service offers, pricing and bundling as well as infrastructure consulting. NSP's consultants are respected thought-leaders in the networking industry and influence its direction through confidential engagements for industry leaders and through public appearances, whitepapers, and trade magazine articles. Contact NSP at www.nspllc.com.

SOURCE Network Strategy Partners, LLC