Fiber to the desk, office, etc. (FTTx) is not a new concept. In this deployment scenario, the improved range of fiber optics over copper cables allows access switches to be deployed right next to the end devices, with uplinks connected directly to the main distribution frame, eliminating the need for an intermediate distribution frame on each floor. However, as access switches get closer to the end users, the requirements for operating noise and product footprint get stricter. Enter the Cisco Catalyst Micro Switches, a product family of small, fanless switches purpose-built for FTTx deployments. These switches open up a variety of network design and connectivity opportunities.