Converged protocols differ from encapsulated, multilayer protocols. Converged protocols are what happens when you merge specialty or proprietary protocols with standard protocols, such as TCP/IP suite protocols. With converged protocols, an organization can reduce reliance on distinct, costly proprietary hardware, as well as create variations of performance, depending on which converged protocol is being used.
Some common examples of converged protocols are described here:
- Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE): Fibre Channel solutions usually need separate fiber-optic cabling infrastructure to deliver network data-storage options, such as a storage area network (SAN) or network-attached storage (NAS). Fibre Channel is useful because it allows for high-speed file transfers achieving 128 Gbps and today reaching 256 Gbps. Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) was developed to facilitate Fibre Channel to work more efficiently, while using less expensive copper cables over Ethernet connections. Using 10 Gbps Ethernet, FCoE uses Ethernet frames to support the Fibre Channel communications.
- Internet Small Computer System Interface (iSCSI): iSCSI is often viewed as a low-cost alternative to Fibre Channel. It is also a networking storage standard, but based on It facilitates connection of a remote storage volume over a network as if the device were attached locally. The iSCSI transmits SCSI commands over IP networks and performs like a virtual SATA (or SCSI) cable.
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Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS): MPLS is a high-throughput, high-performance network technology that directs data across a network based on short path labels rather than longer network addresses. Compared with IP routing processes, which are complex and take a longer time to navigate, MPLS saves significant time. Using encapsulation, MPLS is designed to handle a wide range of protocols. An MPLS network can handle T1/E1, ATM, Frame Relay, synchronous optical networking (SONET), and DSL network technologies, not just TCP/ IP and compatible protocols. MPLS is often used to create a virtual dedicated circuit between two stations.
