Fiber to the desk, to the office, etc. (FTTx) is not a new concept. In this deployment scenario, the improved range of fiber optics compared to copper cables allows access switches to be installed directly next to end devices, with uplinks connected directly to the main distribution frame. This eliminates the need for an intermediate distribution frame on each floor. However, as access switches are positioned closer to end users, the requirements for operational noise and product footprint become stricter. This is where the Cisco Catalyst Micro Switches come into play, a product family of small, fanless switches specifically designed for FTTx deployments. These switches offer flexible mounting options and open up a variety of network design and connectivity possibilities.