EPON (Ethernet Passive Optical Networks) or GEPON (Gigabit Ethernet Passive Optical Networks), also known as Ethernet PON is an IEEE/EFM standard for using Ethernet for packet data, as defined in IEEE 802.3ah. It defines how Ethernet can be transmitted over new media types and in our context point to multipoint fiber.
EPON/GEPON is a fast Ethernet over passive optical networks which are point to multipoint fiber to the premises (FTTP)/fiber to the home (FTTH) architecture in which single optical fiber is used to serve multiple premises or users. A ‘PON’ architecture consists of an Optical Line Termination (OLT) on the provider’s side and one or many Optical Network Units (ONU) on the users’ side. This type of architecture is always better than the point to point ones. These are fast replacing existing technologies as DSL or cable modems as EPON/GEPON are capable of providing bandwidths of up to 1 gigabit and beyond and also serve multiple purposes at a time.
GEPON or EPON has been deployed widely in Japan and provides for a symmetrical 1.0 Gbps data rate in both directions, upstream and downstream and is fast gaining momentum across the globe for obvious advantages for both providers and users alike. GEPON’s biggest advantage is its use of native Ethernet protocols. Also the economics of scale associated with Ethernet components such as optical interfaces, adds to it.
GEPON or EPON provides seamless connectivity for any type of IP-based or other packetized (Ethernet) communications as it employs a single Layer 2 network that uses IP to carry data, voice, and video. Since Ethernet devices are present everywhere from home network to regional, national and worldwide backbone networks, implementation of EPONs has proved to be cost-effective. Also it provides secure communication as encryption is provided in both ends i.e. upstream and downstream, so the chances of eavesdropping fade away. As the transfer rates in Ethernet scale up by the day the scalability of EPON/GEPON is limitless and so is the flexibility of ADNET GEPON devices where we have a variety of products to choose from.
Of the many advantages to offer some are worth to notice, With the GEPON/EPON standard, there is no limit on the number of ONUs, remember these are the units on the users’ side.
GEPON/EPON requires a single management system, which means GEPON/EPON results in a significantly lower total cost of ownership. EPON also does not require multi-protocol conversions.