Frame Relay is a widely used Wide Area Network (WAN) protocol. A layer 2 protocol, frame relay is used to create a private network through the carrier’s network. The data transmission technique operative in frame relay enables efficient transfer of digital information. The system to forward messages is similar to a "relay race," wherein the "frames" or data packets are transmitted from one/many start points through a series of intermediate node points to one/many destinations. Frame relay encapsulates data into variable-size units (frames), entrusting required error correction such as resending data, to the end points. Speed of overall data transmission is thereby increased.
Frame relay uses Permanent Virtual Circuits (PVC), which during transit facilitate bidirectional communication paths between terminal devices that can be identified through a Data Link Connection Identifier (DLCI). Several virtual circuits can be multiplexed into a single circuit for transmission across the network. The complexness of technical equipment and network while connecting multi-terminal devices is considerably reduced by frame relay functionality. The use of PVCs in frame relay technology enables users to experience a continuous and dedicated connection without having to pay for a full-time leased line. The service provider works out the route traveled by each frame to its end point (destination) and then charges the user based on level of usage.
Frame relay is provided on fractional T-1 or full T-carrier systems. It offers a mid-range service between Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) and Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), and also complements the same. Frame relay is primarily used to connect Local Area Networks (LANs) to large networks, public telecommunication infrastructure such as WANs, or private networks. However, dedicated connections are required by frame relay technology to have smooth flow of data transmissions. Frame relay connectivity for Wide Area Networks necessitates business users to purchase the frame relay service from a service provider.
A Frame relay network connection is established by combining the users’ Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) to the service providers’ Data Communications Equipment (DCE) through a point-to-point link. The user thus gets connected to the service providers’ Frame Cloud. When the Frame cloud connection has been established at multiple users’ sites, then PVCs are set up to enable communication between those sites. The endpoints of the Permanent Virtual Circuits are identified through DLCI. The business users can easily monitor the line’s status once it is connected, with the aid of a Local Management Interface (LMI).
The major advantage of using Frame Relay is its cost efficiency when compared to leased lines. Frame relay’s performance is similar to that of point-to-point leased lines, but at a lesser cost for long distances. It is cost efficient since it is sufficient if the user/customer establishes a dedicated end-to-end connection to the service provider’s frame switch that is located at proximity. The data packets are then transmitted from here to the shared network of the service provider.
The advancement of technology has offered superior technology solutions and caused a decline in older technology. Frame Relay has also undergone a reduction in usage level when compared to technology such as Virtual Private Network (VPN), DSL, Cable Modem, etc. Still, developing and rural areas that have not been introduced to advanced technology continue using this low cost WAN protocol that offers continuous connections. Frame relay technology is often considered as an effective substitute for X.25 networks and dedicated lines due to its reliability and bandwidth efficiency.
The growing demand for robust networking solutions augmented the development of new technology and products. FatPipe Networks (www.fatpipe.com), a pioneer in router clustering technology and WAN optimization solutions, has introduced an array of products to handle a wide variety of network types. Businesses of all sizes use FatPipe’s devices to ensure WAN stability and redundancy. FatPipe devices can aggregate multiple Frame Relays or aggregate them with IPVPN or VPN circuits. This imparts WAN redundancy that ensures business continuity. FatPipe devices have many features including automatic line failover, dynamic load balancing of Internet Protocol (IP) traffic, site-to-site and unit failover capabilities that substantially increase WAN efficiency, which is of key concern to businesses.
