For Interop, a network called “ShowNet” has constructed in the exhibition and conference halls.
“ShowNet” is a network for providing Internet services for exhibitors in the exhibition hall, conference instructors and visitors, and it is also the world’s largest network for demonstrating network equipment and technologies.
As many people know, the name of this event is derived from the term “interoperability.” ShowNet is exclusively designed for interoperability testing. For example, the 10Gigabit Ethernet interoperability test was conducted with this ShowNet last year, and it has been a venue for verification testing of future security technology.
Also, ShowNet is built under certain themes. With network technology constantly evolving, the theme is selected accordingly each year. The theme of ShowNet this year is “microcosm of the Internet.” The machines and equipment used for the Internet differ depending on whether we are talking about networks at the ISP level or networks for enterprises and small or home offices. This year, ShowNet clarifies what machines and technology are required for each network, and provides network configurations enabling effective demonstrations for each technology. IPv6 and security are absolutely common themes for all networks.

howNet consists of the cutting-edge network equipment and services provided by the “ShowNet Sponsorship Program.” Specialists in equipment and solutions participate from companies and work with the Network Operation Center (NOC) team members with the most advance expertise and experience to create the latest networks. This collaboration is supported by ShowNet Team Members (STMs), who comprise the volunteer team chosen from the public. ShowNet is built and operated with a strong collaboration of NOC/ShowNet Sponsorship Program/STM during the exhibition period.

You can see not only demonstrations at exhibiting booths connected to ShowNet, but also visit the NOC or POD booth to see the different kinds of equipment used for ShowNet. Or visit ShowNet TV and ShowNet Cafe for a real experience of the present and future of “the microcosm of the Internet.”

You can also take part in the “ShowNet walking tour” and the “ShowNet technical seminars,” so that NOC team members will share their in-depth expertise in leading-edge technologies and operational know-how used for ShowNet. Please experience ShowNet at the exhibition hall of Interop.

ShowNet is roughly divided into five elements. Each element contains leading-edge technologies, products, and services based on the expertise and design of the NOC team.

> ShowNet Topology

ShowNet places optical and UTP cables on the hall ceiling to connect each exhibiting booth at Makuhari Messe. Cables coming down from the hall ceiling to exhibiting booths are called “drops.” We offer an array of media types for these drops this year, and provide corporate exhibitors with drops using network technology depending on the intended use.

We also provide corporate exhibitors with solutions, such as monitoring and measures against attacks and viruses originating from external sources for each exhibiting booth, as well as overall ShowNet security. Thus, we provide a true broadband demonstration environment.

Enterprise type drops (hole 2-3)
1	10Base-T/100Base-TX
2	1000Base-T
3	Gigabit Ethernet (1000Base-SX)
4	10Gigabit Ethernet (10GBase-LR)

Career type drops (hole 4-6)
1	10Base-T/100Base-TX
2	1000Base-T
3	Gigabit Ethernet (1000Base-SX)
4	10Gigabit Ethernet (10GBase-LR)
moreover, the drops of this section are private -- the peer in BGP by AS -- the ring serves as a standard -- the full route of the Internet is offered.

Standard drops: SOHO/HOME type drops (hole 7-8)
1	10Base-T/100Base-TX(PPPoE)

ShowNet Magazines, containing all the information you need about ShowNet, are available at the exhibition hall. ShowNet Magazines are filled with ShowNet highlights such as technical summaries, network design concepts, interview with NOC/STM members, and other information on companies participating in the ShowNet Sponsorship Program. When you walk around the hall or take part in a ShowNet walking tour, please have a copy of this magazine that helps you better understand the latest in key technologies and know-how.