 services can be inserted, based on traffic characteristics of individual flows. In short, many technologies that were once limited to the datacenter space such as software- defined networks, server virtualization, overlay networking technologies, etc. can now be used to promote simplification of the end-to-end network environment across WAN boundaries. The next section describes some of these technologies as it pertains to enterprise applications. 10.2 TECHNOLOGY INNOVATIONS Intel x8 6-based server technology has been around for ages and the ability to run network functions such as routers and firewalls has been there for some time, especially in the Linux environment Building the Network of the Future [1]. Most of these solutions were not enterprise grade and never gained traction outside of embed- ded consumer devices. This section will outline the technology advances in x86 technology and software programmability that will now allow commodity-based hardware to run enterprise grade network applications. In recent years, there has been significant progress in multiple areas that allow us to create the network of the future. These innovations are not only driving the cost of network elements lower but are also enabling a new next-generation networking design approach as well. This section will discuss some of the enabling technologies that directly impact the evolution of the networking envi- ronment and design as known to us today. The move toward Internet protocol (IP) from time division multiplexing (TDM) connections is a key trend that enables use of these technologies across WAN networks. Initially, for many service providers, the move toward IP mainly focused on cost savings by divesting from the older genera- tion TDM network, but in reality, it also provides opportunity to innovate around Ethernet deploy- ments. As an example, with Ethernet only access, the CPE edge device at customer locations will no longer require TDM interfaces. With Ethernet only interfaces, CPE devices now look very similar to x86-