Ceragon Networks Ltd., a provider of high-capacity wireless backhaul solutions, announced that it has become the first global microwave provider to achieve Metro Ethernet Forum (MEF) certification for Ethernet Microwave Systems. This achievement enables service providers and carriers to utilize microwave transmission for standard Ethernet networks and services.

    "We are pleased to welcome Ceragon as the first microwave provider to receive MEF 9 certification," said Bob Mandeville, President of Iometrix. "Compliance to MEF 9 is a clear verification that Ceragon's products and solutions meet Metro Ethernet Forum strict requirements for Carrier Class Ethernet."

    The MEF certification programs are designed to accelerate the deployment of Carrier Ethernet services worldwide by offering assurance to service providers that certified vendor equipment conforms to stringent Carrier Ethernet interoperability requirements. Ceragon's high-capacity microwave Ethernet system, FibeAir IP-MAX was tested by Iometrix, an independent testing lab and certified as compliant to MEF 9 for the Ethernet Private Line (EPL) service after successful performance in all applicable test cases.

    "Ceragon has reached a milestone achievement with the first Ethernet microwave system to be certified by the MEF," said Ira Palti, Ceragon's President and CEO. "This is a major breakthrough for the Ethernet Microwave market that can now enjoy a fully standardized carrier Ethernet wireless solution. With the MEF certification, carriers and service providers can have full confidence in our high-capacity Carrier Class Ethernet product portfolio."

    "Ethernet is making its way into carrier networks worldwide. Service providers, in turn, recognize the value of industry validation and standardization when selecting their Ethernet vendors. MEF certification is one example of this validation, helping to justify product selection," said Peter Jarich, Research Director at Current Analysis. "With the first MEF-certified microwave Ethernet microwave portfolio, Ceragon is delivering on a clear market demand while highlighting the on-going work of the Metro Ethernet Forum."