The rapid increase of multiprotocol networks carrying converged voice, video, and data traffic is driving the need for a new approach to the core components used to build infrastructure products. Historically, companies have developed application specific integrated components (ASICs) specifically designed for a particular product in the network.

An emerging class of products called network processors with sophisticated packet handling capabilities aim to deliver highly-programmable, flexible, scalable core technology that will give equipment vendors a distinct time to market advantage over the traditional ASIC-based approach.

According to Dataquest, the network processor market will reach almost $2.8 billion in 2004, with a 66.5 percent compounded annual growth rate from 1999 through 2004.

Dataquest also observes that network processors, with their ability to provide the sophisticated packet processing required for forwarding, classification, provisioning, policy enforcement and other features, are well-poised to support the needs for quality of service (QoS), security, and other services.

The time to market argument is indeed compelling, as the life cycles of network systems decrease and competition increases. Because the use of network processors can greatly reduce the time system vendors would need to design an equivalent ASIC, a dramatic reduction in time to market is achievable. In addition, field programmable processors allows for upgrades to existing systems, which is not possible in ASIC-based designs. The ability to add features and functionality to systems that are already in service results in faster delivery of increased capabilities to the ultimate recipients of the network: the end user.