KEYMILE not only reacts to new technologies, but also actively works on their development. The company is presenting an extension to the LLDP protocol at the IEEE International Conference on Communications (CPI) in London. To date, this standardized Layer 2 protocol, IEEE 802.1ab, only allowed the exchange of information between two or more adjacent devices on a network.
The functionality, developed by KEYMILE subsidiary HYTEC, allows access to all devices on Layer 2 networks. Type-Length-Value (TLV) elements are the underlying building blocks. Typical applications include switched WANs belonging to utility companies such as electricity, gas, and water providers. The new LLDP feature, already implemented in the KEYMILE LineRunner IS 3400 series and the HYTEC-HY104 family, enables administrators to more easily troubleshoot and analyze Layer 2 network topology.
The details of how the LLDP expansion works, which no other company can offer, are summarized in a detailed technical document that HYTEC will present at the IEEE ICC in London.
"This expansion of LLDP allows KEYMILE to participate in the development of network standards that will benefit many companies managing mission-critical networks. In this case, KEYMILE has a competitive advantage with a technology that helps users increase their competitiveness," commented Thorsten Scholz, Managing Director of HYTEC, a KEYMILE subsidiary. "Our next goal is to integrate the feature into the official IEEE standardization process.".

More information