Forward Error Correction, specifically Reed-Solomon Forward Error Correction (RS-FEC), is sometimes mandated on the interfaces connecting a host device (like a server or network card) to a network. This requirement dictates that data transmitted must include redundant information, allowing the receiving end to detect and correct errors introduced during transmission. An example is a 200G or 400G Ethernet connection where the physical layer standard specifies RS-FEC to achieve the desired bit error rate performance.
Its implementation offers a significant advantage in maintaining data integrity and reliable communication, particularly at high data rates and over imperfect channels. RS-FEC improves the effective range and stability of connections by mitigating the impact of signal degradation, noise, and other impairments. Historically, its inclusion has been driven by the need to support ever-increasing bandwidth demands while preserving data accuracy in challenging electrical and optical environments. It allows for the use of less expensive, and potentially lower quality components in networking hardware, since errors can be corrected.
