In today's ever-changing world of networking, there are a number of vendors striving to bring the cure-all to market for current problems. Some of these problems include network scalability, performance, and reliability. While many vendors are striving to meet these needs with antiquated designs, Juniper Networks opted to start from the ground up and create the first proven next -generation router platform. Juniper Networks was established in February 1996, long after other vendors had already made a name for themselves . Since then, they have been moving to the top, seizing a leadership role in the industry. This chapter will discuss the Internet and its recent growth, as well as its evolution and how the architecture itself has changed. The chapter will also discuss the M-Series router products and their positioning, as well as Juniper Networks' educational offerings and certification program. The chapter will conclude with a recommended reading list to supplement the knowledge acquired from this text. |