CSFP, or the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, was created in 1969.

The Compact Small Form-Factor Pluggable (CSFP) transceiver was created to address the need for a compact and flexible solution in fiber optic communication systems. The CSFP MSA (Multi-Source Agreement), which defines the mechanical and electrical specifications for CSFP modules, was published in September 2008. This agreement was established by a group of industry participants to standardize the form factor and ensure interoperability among different vendors' equipment.

The CSFP module is designed to be smaller than traditional SFP modules, allowing network operators to save space and increase port density on networking devices. It is often used in applications where space is a premium, such as in access networks and other scenarios where compact form factors are essential.