Routing over Frame Relay
Frame Relay provides connectivity by using a packet-switched network. Its two advantages over a leased line network are lower cost and the ability to have multiple permanent virtual circuits (PVCs) come into a single physical port.
Frame Relay is especially popular for hub-and-spoke network arrangements. For example, a dozen field offices with 56Kbps or fractional T1 Frame Relay connections can connect to a central office using a fractional T1 or T1 Frame Relay connection. The central office requires only one CSU/DSU and synchronous port on the router, instead of 12. For more information, see the PortMaster Configuration Guide.