If you work with SFP transceivers, you know the importance of having the right brand of equipment or compatible parts to avoid losing valuable warranty coverage. But, did you know that by sticking with products that are MSA (Multi-Source Agreement) compliant, you can maintain the integrity of your equipment and warranties? Here’s a closer look at why it’s important to use MSA compliant networking products. What are MSA standards? The MSA is an agreement among competing industry manufacturers to build products such as Ethernet switches, routers, and media converters, that are compatible across different brands of networking equipment. Small Form-Factor Pluggable (SFP) and enhanced SFP+ optical transceivers, for example, are standardized technologies that are manufactured to comply with MSA standards. All elements of the SFP or SFP+, including the mechanical and electrical interface, are specified by a Multi-Source Agreement. Why are MSA standards important? MSA standards create an open marketplace for SFP and SFP+ transceiver modules, providing customers with a wider choice of products and more competitive pricing. This results in a higher degree of confidence in the SFPs you choose and significant cost savings. The MSA standards give you the assurance that SFP modules are identical in form factor and functionality to the equivalent Cisco® and HP® SFPs, and meet the requirements of all networking equipment brands that follow the MSA standards. Using third-party, MSA compliant SFPs offers all the benefits of the name-brand product, but offer more selection and competitive pricing. This means that you can find a supplier who focuses on having the right product available at all times and at a fair price. Sounds like a win-win right? Remember to select MSA certified products when looking to replace SFPs. Learn more about SFP products from StarTech.com.