IEEE

Google Rumored to Develop 10Gbps Switches

When you’re an Internet juggernaut like Google, you can’t let simple things like the fact that a technology hasn’t been invented get in your way. Google has to transport a lot of data from Point A to Point B within their data center very quickly in order to work all of the magic they do that keeps the users coming back. The mortal world of networking has 1Gbps Ethernet networks, but that is the max for now. IEEE is working on developing both 40Gbps and 100Gbps standards, but it could be years before the standards are ratified and actual, functioning equipment hits the streets. Iconic organizations like Google can’t be sitting around, twiddling their thumbs waiting for standards to be ratified. The rumor is that their is evidence to suggest that Google has developed their own 10Gbps switches in-house for their data centers. Check out this Networkworld.com article for more about the story.

IEEE Higher Speed Study Group (HSSG) Resolves Differences

IEEE created the HSSG (Higher Speed Study Group) to work on developing the next generation Ethernet standard. The current standard top speed is 10Gbps. Originally, the group set out to develop a 100Gbps standard, but factions within IEEE fought for an interim 40Gbps standard as well. The battle almost scuttled the whole project as the two sides reached a stalemate and refused to work together. Computerworld reports that the two sides have more or less agreed to disagree and that work is now continuing to develop a single standard for both 40Gbps and 100Gbps ethernet. Read IEEE group settles on faster Ethernet plans for more details.

Fastest Internet Connection In The World

While the Internet2 Network and IEEE pursue varying methods for maximizing network transmission speeds and increasing the bandwidth available for data on the Internet, Californian networking expert Peter Lothberg has set his mother in Sweden up with the fastest Internet connection in the world. Relying on cutting edge modulation techniques, 75 year old Sigbritt Lothberg enjoys speeds up to 40Gbps. This Washington Post article has more on the story and how this network speed was achieved.

100G and 40G Duke It Out

The Higher Speed Study Group (HSSG), a working group within IEEE, has divided into factions battling it out. The original charter of the group is to explore a 100 Gbps ethernet standard. However, many members are pushing for a 40 Gbps ethernet standard to be established as well as a stepping stone to the ultimate goal.

The 100G proponents are resisting the idea, claiming that it will take their focus off of their real purpose and will impact progress toward the 100 Gbps standard. Those in favor of 40G feel that it is a logical step that is on the path toward 100G and gives the market something to deliver in the mean time.

The battle has gotten a little nasty and IEEE has directed the factions to come to a consensus and get things on track, or IEEE may possibly dissolve the working group altogether. Read Controversy threatens 100G standards work for more details.