As network convergence evolves, major challenges confront network developers. Sheer demand for bandwidth is perhaps the most significant. As applications become more sophisticated and users exchange data of increasingly rich content, network resources can become overwhelmed. A key to effective network convergence therefore lies in the design, installation and maintenance of adequate hardware. Another challenge is the fact that the implementation of new technologies is limited by the extent to which investors and taxpayers are willing to support them. Still another key issue is the need for standards that ensure seamless operation with multiple end-user platforms and evolving communications modes. New technologies sometimes bring new types of traffic that place previously unknown demands on network hardware, operating systems, resources and software.