EFM stands for Ethernet first mile. This is a term which is used in reference to the Ethernet family of computer network protocols, which works between a telecommunications company and their client. In order to understand what EFM is and how it functions it is important that you understand how it came to be and the history of this very beneficial technology.
History of Ethernet First Mile
The earliest recorded date in the history of Ethernet first mile is 1996. EFM is commonly referred to as the first mile based on a PC or laptop user's point of view. However those that see it through the main access point may often refer to it as being the last mile instead of the first for various reasons.
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, also known as the IEEE, are responsible for developing the various standards involved. These standards include the IEEE 802.3ah-20045 and the IEEE 802.3-2008 which are commonly used in the modern age.
There are various types of LANs available or local area networks that use many different forms of the Ethernet. When the Ethernet was first introduced its main purpose was to help to do away with all non-native forms of transport. This includes asynchronous transfer mode from the various access networks which are available.
The Early Uses of Ethernet First Mile
In the early days, EtherLoop technology was created by the well known Nortel Network. This invention later led to the formation of the company we know today as the Elastic Networks. The main contributor to this project, which began in 1998, was a man named Jack Terry. His intention was to help combine all packet based Ethernet technologies with the high speed capabilities, which were used with DSL, so that the Ethernet could work using existing telephone lines.
Ethernet first mile is the name of the IEEE standard 802.3ah-2004. This standard helps to specify the exact media access control parameters, which are used in the determining of physical layers within the EFM, as well as helping to manage parameters for use with subscriber access networks. The EFM was first approved by the IEEE board in June of 2004 and then later published on September 7, 2004.
On most occasions the last mile is a term that is used for the public communication network system. This system can help link to the last provider owned node, this is referred to, on many occasions, as the central office, as well as the street cabinet, or the pole that the customer uses along with their equipment in order to access the Internet.
In short, the Ethernet first mile is the information that is viewed through a user's perspective.
Some people may believe that the EFM can help to fully replace the Ethernet but that is not the case. It in fact does not help to improve or replace the Ethernet in any way. Ethernet First Mile is simply a process of additional specifications that can help Ethernet users run the process over a format that was at one time unsupported.
Ethernet First Mile - commonly referred to as EFM - is utilised by many people. This article explains what Ethernet First Mile actually is.