What does "EVC" stand for in Carrier Ethernet?

EVC stands for Ethernet Virtual Connection in the context of Carrier Ethernet. This term is crucial as it defines a logical connection within an Ethernet network that enables the segregation of different services and traffic types over the same physical infrastructure.

An Ethernet Virtual Connection allows service providers to efficiently deliver Ethernet services, such as point-to-point and multipoint-to-multipoint connections, while maintaining isolation between different customer traffic. This ensures Quality of Service (QoS) features and management controls can be applied effectively, catering to various service level agreements (SLAs) demanded by different customers.

Understanding EVC is foundational in Carrier Ethernet because it emphasizes the concept of service multiplexing, allowing multiple services to share the same physical Ethernet backbone without interference. By defining specific EVCs, carriers can manage bandwidth, control traffic flows, and ensure reliable service delivery in a cost-effective manner.