Verizon has taken a significant step in modernizing its network infrastructure to meet the growing demands of Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly in its generative form. During a test conducted in Boston, the company successfully moved 1.6 Tb/s of data across its fiber optic network using a single wavelength, thanks to Ciena’s WaveLogic 6 Extreme (WL6e) technology. This advancement not only increases the speed and reach of the network but also optimizes energy efficiency, significantly reducing consumption per unit of capacity.
A Network Ready for AI
AI, especially generative AI, requires real-time processing of billions of data points, a challenge that demands high-capacity, low-latency networks. According to Adam Koeppe, Senior Vice President of Technology Strategy and Planning at Verizon, the transformation of the company’s network has been key to meeting these requirements.
“Thanks to our cloud-native architecture, the deployment of high-performance spectrum, and the exponential expansion of our fiber infrastructure’s capacity, we are positioned to lead the support of AI workloads now and in the future,” explained Koeppe.
Test Details in Boston
The test was performed over a 118 km section of the metropolitan Boston network, passing through 10 hops and nine reconfigurable optical add-drop multiplexers (ROADMs). Using Ciena’s WL6e solution, the test validated the ability to transport 1.6 Tb/s in a high-density environment, demonstrating the viability of this technology in heavy traffic scenarios.
The WL6e technology, based on next-generation coherent transceivers with 3 nm silicon technology, offers unprecedented capacity and a 50% reduction in space and energy consumption per bit. According to Brodie Gage, Senior Vice President of Global Products and Supply Chain at Ciena, this innovation is specifically designed to support the growth of AI-driven traffic and applications that require large bandwidths.
Sustainable Technology
In addition to its technical performance, this technology represents an advancement in sustainability. Ciena estimates that using WL6e can reduce carbon emissions by 86% per terabit of capacity delivered compared to earlier generations of technology. This approach not only supports the demands for greater capacity and speed but also addresses the need for a more environmentally-friendly infrastructure.
A Future-Forward Network
With this enhancement to its fiber optic network, Verizon is not only strengthening its ability to handle AI workloads but also reinforcing its position as a leading provider in digital transformation. This advancement highlights the company’s commitment to technological innovation and sustainability, responding to the growing demands of businesses and consumers in an increasingly AI- and data-driven world.
via: Verizon