So, Just What Is A Plugfest, Anyway?

In the course of my work with the Ethernet Alliance, I have the opportunity to speak with many people. More often than not one of the first questions I hear is, “So, just what is a plugfest, anyway?” followed by, “Why should I bother to take part in plugfests?” and “Do they really help? What do they accomplish?” These are very valid questions deserving of answers, yet fully explaining the value of plugfests requires more time than allotted by this short blog post. However, there’s a terrific opportunity coming up where you can find out more about this valuable interoperability tool – the Ethernet Alliance plugfest webinar.

Sponsored by the Ethernet Alliance’s Ethernet in the Data Center subcommittee, this webinar provides an in-depth look at our plugfests, including answers to key questions like how these events help end users and technologies to be tested in future plugfests. Led by Mikkel Hagen of the University of New Hampshire Interoperability Lab and Ixia’s Henry He, the plugfest webinar is scheduled for Tuesday, June 19, 2012. Two sessions will be held; the morning session begins at 9:00 AM PDT and will be followed by an afternoon session at 4:00 PM PDT. Each session includes a short Q&A period at the end of the presentation.

In addition to answering many of the questions I often receive about plugfests, the Ethernet Alliance plugfest webinar will give attendees a clear understanding of the overall plugfest process, how they facilitate and improve interoperability among vendors, and the relationship between plugfests and IEEE Ethernet standards. Attendees will also get a sneak peek at the next plugfest, set for October 2012, and hear the real-world results of recent plugfests.

In its mission to expand the Ethernet ecosystem, the Ethernet Alliance provides ongoing educational and learning opportunities through programs such as its University of Ethernet. Keeping Ethernet users abreast of the latest technology trends and advancements, our University of Ethernet curriculum delivers practical, useful information that can help you make better, more cost-efficient networking decisions. Don’t miss out – register for the Ethernet Alliance plugfest webinar today.

Chauncey Schwartz, Chair, Ethernet Alliance Marketing Committee, and Sr. Technology Marketing Manager, QLogic