The new long-range connectivity brand strengthens critical infrastructure for next-generation AI and cloud applications.
Lumen Technologies and Ciena have achieved a new milestone in data transmission: an optical signal of 1.2 terabits per second (Tbps) transmitted without regeneration over 3,050 kilometers, from Denver to Dallas, becoming the longest connection of its kind recorded to date.
The test was conducted over Lumen’s Ultra-Low-Loss (ULL) fiber network and utilized Ciena’s Waveserver platform, equipped with its cutting-edge WaveLogic 6 Extreme (WL6e) technology. This solution allows transmissions over a single carrier channel, reducing the need for intermediate hardware, which represents a revolution in efficiency, scalability, and cost for network operators.
Networks Ready for the Era of Artificial Intelligence
The growing demand for AI models, real-time analytics, and cloud applications is pushing traditional networks to their limits. In this context, Lumen is betting on infrastructure that can scale without compromising speed or latency. According to Dave Ward, Chief Technology and Product Officer at Lumen:
“This innovation is not just about speed; it’s about enabling the digital transformation driven by AI. With Ciena’s technology, we provide our hyperscale partners with the connectivity they need to scale their applications with confidence.”
Interoperability and Energy Efficiency
In addition to speed, the test demonstrated seamless interoperability between Ciena’s technology and the Juniper PTX10002 routers, achieving speeds of 800 Gbps without packet loss or significant latency. This confirms the ability to scale Ethernet and IP services without interruptions or the need for optical regenerators.
For its part, Ciena highlights the impact of this collaboration. Brodie Gage, Senior Vice President of Global Products, emphasized that:
“This advancement is key to preparing networks for the AI era. The ability to transport 1.2 Tbps over a single wavelength redefines performance and efficiency standards.”
Ciena’s WL6e technology is the first in the industry capable of reaching up to 1.6 Tbps per wavelength, thanks to a 3nm silicon coherent transceiver, making it a benchmark in optical innovation.
Critical Applications and Mass Deployment
The implications of this technology are profound and far-reaching. From datacenter interconnection and financial trading to media transmission and AI-based cybersecurity, the ability to deliver high-speed, low-latency links is a key strategic factor.
Currently, Lumen’s network has over 125,000 kilometers of fiber optics enabled for 400 Gbps, with ongoing expansion plans across the Americas.
A Step Forward in Network Evolution
The success of this test positions Lumen and Ciena at the forefront of high-performance networks. With the rise of generative AI, foundational models, and data-intensive applications, network infrastructures need to evolve to be more flexible, efficient, and sustainable. This test sets a new standard that could soon become the norm for operators looking to anticipate the needs of the upcoming digital decade.