The Metro Ethernet Forum is expanding its certification program to include a variety of Ethernet access media, including copper, fiber, passive optical networks and wireless technology.

Starting next month, the MEF will test equipment for its compliance to the operations, administration and management (OAM) specifications of the IEEE's "Ethernet first mile" standard. That standard, 802.3ah, allows carriers to deliver Ethernet services over a variety of access media, including copper, fiber and Ethernet-based PON.

As part of this expansion of its certification program into access media, the MEF will also test the performance of equipment based on the IEEE's 802.11T standard for wireless Ethernet and its compliance to that standard.

"By 2010, there should be no excuse for not delivering carrier Ethernet services to every office, every home and to mobile users, too," said Nan Chen, MEF president, in a statement issued today.

OAM certification for carrier Ethernet in general, as opposed to just EFM gear, will come eventually, Chen said, as will testing of other aspects of EFM gear besides OAM.

In February the MEF began testing Ethernet equipment for quality of service characteristics.