A method for conveying management information across a network. The method includes receiving an Ethernet packet at a network element and modifying the packet by inserting a header in place of some or all of an unused portion of a preamble within the packet. The header is configured to provide support for network management. The method further includes transmitting the modified packet from the network element. The method may also include examining and updating the header at intermediate network elements and examining and replacing the header with the preamble at an egress network element.