Traditional copper-based local area networks continue to increase in complexity. The addition of new technology leads to the need for additional network connections, which stresses the available bandwidth. Costs increase to accommodate the additions, and business owners must find ways to increase the infrastructure to handle the increased demand.
Many business owners upgrade to a passive optical local area network to avoid these issues. The following guide provides a general overview for those who want a basic understanding of this type of network and how it works. If they want additional information, they can learn more about POLANs over at Hosted America.
What is a Passive Optical LAN?
A passive optical LAN relies on FTTx architecture and protocols rather than Ethernet switches. All information moves through the network to an optical line terminal, while the optical line network is responsible for device management. Other components of a POLAN include single-mode fiber and passive optical terminals.
Passive optical LANs are a subset of passive optical networks. They are indoor networks rather than broadband and outdoor ones. There are no industry-wide standards for POLANs today, so consumers must choose a reputable provider to work with. Doing so will ensure the highest level of service.
How Do POLANs Work?
Traditional local area networks rely on switches and routers to handle signal distribution. A passive optical network uses light for data transmission. There are no active devices between the line terminal and the network terminal. A stand of single-mode fiber is connected to a passive fiber optic splitter. This splitter sends the signal to additional fiber strands that support hundreds of devices.
When is a POLAN Beneficial?
Business owners must know whether they will benefit from a POLAN. While this type of network simplifies operations and helps many business owners save money, it is not needed in some situations. POLANs are ideal for venues where 100 m distances are called for, as a traditional LAN cannot support these distances. Limited space makes running the cables for a conventional LAN difficult, so a POLAN will be needed.
Businesses that regularly increase the number of connected devices benefit from a POLAN as it offers more bandwidth. POLANs also support convergence, and network support and management are easier. Every business should consider all options to determine which best meets their requirements.
The Benefits of a POLAN Deployment
A POLAN deployment requires less space than a traditional LAN setup. Choosing a POLAN will allow the business to optimize the square footage of its premises and increase revenue. With a POLAN, there are no telecommunications closets and switches, so no space is needed for cabling. In addition, companies using passive splitters need fewer fiber cables. The single-mode fibers used in a passive optical LAN have a small diameter.
Moving to a POLAN helps a company prepare for the future. This type of network is scalable, and the company can quickly respond to increased demand. The business can add new technologies without worrying whether the network will handle the load.
Because they support simple scalability and a cost-effective way to expand networks, POLANs can also simplify responding to the demands of smart buildings and IoT. It can span longer distances, and installation costs decrease. Fewer cables are used, and the need for additional connections is minimized.
A company will find that a POLAN allows it to complete fast and simple moves. Items can be added or removed from the network with ease, and there is no need for PC and client reconfiguration when a company upgrades to a passive optical LAN.
Passive optical LANs use less power than traditional local area networks. This system emits no heat, so cooling requirements decrease. In addition, the components use less power than switched-based LANs. Furthermore, a company spends less on maintenance and troubleshooting after upgrading to a POLAN.
Every company should learn more about the benefits of passive optical LANs. They extend beyond those mentioned above. Many organizations find that upgrading will be a wise business investment. Learn more today to see if that will be the case for you.
