The carrier Ethernet market has been this year, with anyone who is anyone announcing new products. Ciena attempted to solidify its position by snapping up privately held , which makes switches and routers for Ethernet service providers. Still on the block in this market: Nortel's .

15. AT&T-Wayport: $275 million

Wayport specializes in providing wireless-network management for several big companies, including Four Seasons hotels and McDonald's restaurants. By acquiring , AT&T will expand its Wi-Fi footprint to roughly 20,000 locations in the United States and more than 80,000 locations around the world. AT&T customers will have access to all the newly added Wi-Fi hot spots, the company says, and will be able to connect for free using their AT&T-enabled smartphones and laptops. Some industry observers say AT&T's move to treat Wi-Fi strategically is , whereas other carriers seem threatened by Wi-Fi.

One more for good measure

Cisco-Nuova: $678 million?