Frame relay also provides tremendous flexibility in terms of the types of devices that can be connected to the network. Because it is protocol transparent above Layer 2, the data link layer, most types of traffic can ride over a frame relay network without realizing that frame relay is being used. While frame relay has been used predominantly for LAN interconnection, recent developments in various standards bodies have broadened its use to support delay-sensitive applications like voice over frame relay. Retail, manufacturing, bank and finance are only a few of the industries now benefiting from frame relay s ability to provide affordable and efficient connectivity between many sites. As well, the bandwidth sharing qualities of frame relay make it an attractive alternative to leased lines.
Service providers can benefit, too.
Frame relay allows them to allocate the same bandwidth to many customers.