Frame relay has enjoyed much success as the interface of choice among end users. But an often-debated topic is its future market position as ATM takes shape and matures. With a flood of information available on the topic, where does one begin to make evaluations? Will frame relay be around for awhile, or do you need to start looking for a new solution? What are the basic advantages of each to consider?
Plain and simple, frame relay will be here for years to come. Why? Frame relay has matured and entrenched itself as the efficient workhorse technology that increases performance and reduces bottom-line costs. Why else? Frame relay continues to evolve in its traditional areas of weakness that many point to when comparing it with ATM. It is, for example, increasing availability of high-speed connectivity above T1 and SVC support, along with delivering quality of service (QoS). Where once demand for these types of features could be satisfied only via migration to ATM, frame relay is expanding its reach, allowing many to evolve within the technology, as opposed to migrating away from it.
Of course, ATM has its own advantages over frame relay. And it too will continue to evolve and mature in its own right. ATM's biggest strengths today are its scalability - availability today of these higher speeds compared with frame relay's limited availability, inherent QoS support - vs. the proprietary nature of available frame-relay solutions today, and its ability to be a solution for both the LAN and WAN. Should your networking needs fall into these zones today, ATM may be a viable solution and worthy of your taking a second look.
RELATED LINKS
Battle for ground supremacy: Frame relay vs. ATM
Network World, 12/29/98.
ATM Audio Primer from Network World
Frame Relay Audio Primer from Network World
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