MpmPlifylify detailed an expanded Carrier Ethernet certification portfolio designed to address rising enterprise demand for performance-assured connectivity and emerging AI transport requirements. The updated program introduces Carrier Ethernet for Business, available now, and Carrier Ethernet for AI, targeted for availability in Q2 2026, extending the long-running MEF 3.0 framework into AI-era Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) use cases.
Mplify positioned Carrier Ethernet for Business as the direct evolution of MEF 3.0 Carrier Ethernet certification, offering a streamlined transition for existing certified members while preserving continuity, rigor, and global recognition. The updated structure introduces an optional annual retesting and maintenance model intended to keep certifications current as service expectations evolve, with all certified services publicly listed in the Mplify Carrier Ethernet Certification Registry.
The new Carrier Ethernet for AI certification focuses on validating transport performance for AI and agentic AI workloads operating across geographically distributed, multi-provider environments. By aligning with established Carrier Ethernet standards, Mplify aims to provide independent, third-party validation for providers claiming AI-ready infrastructure, supporting interoperability and consistent performance as AI workloads scale across complex network domains. Certification testing continues to be managed by Iometrix, Mplify’s accredited test and certification partner for Carrier Ethernet.
- Carrier Ethernet for Business
- Direct evolution and rebranding of MEF 3.0 Carrier Ethernet
- Optional annual retesting and refreshed certification records
- Single certification fee with predictable annual maintenance
- Public listing in the Carrier Ethernet Certification Registry
- Carrier Ethernet for AI
- Validates transport performance for AI and agentic AI workloads
- Targets multi-domain, multi-provider network environments
- Designed as a foundational element of NaaS for AI
- Availability targeted for Q2 2026
- Ecosystem participation
- Seamless transition path for MEF 3.0-certified members
- Structured enrollment for earlier certification holders
- Standards-based entry path for new participants
“Carrier Ethernet has powered reliable business connectivity for over two decades, and its global footprint positions it to play a critical role in AI transport alongside wavelength-based connectivity,” said Kevin Vachon, COO, Mplify. “As AI-driven services scale, providers need ongoing validation to demonstrate that networks can support both mainstream business requirements and emerging AI transport demands.”
🌐 Analysis
Mplify’s move reflects a broader industry shift to formalize AI-ready network claims with measurable, standards-based validation as enterprises deploy distributed AI workloads across hybrid and multi-cloud environments. The addition of Carrier Ethernet for AI extends the relevance of Ethernet-based services alongside optical and wavelength infrastructure, while reinforcing NaaS positioning amid parallel efforts by hyperscalers and service providers to define AI transport performance benchmarks.
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