Verizon boosts fiber network for AI workload support

The telecommunications industry continues to evolve as network providers upgrade their infrastructure to meet the growing demands of artificial intelligence applications and data processing requirements.

Major breakthrough: Verizon has successfully tested data transmission speeds of 1.6 terabits per second on a single wavelength within its live metro fiber network.

• The test was conducted using Ciena’s WaveLogic 6 Extreme (WL6e) coherent optical solution in Boston
• The trial covered a distance of 118 kilometers while navigating 10 network hops and nine reconfigurable optical add-drop multiplexers (ROADMs)
• This advancement represents a significant step forward in supporting high-bandwidth AI applications and workloads

Technical significance: The network upgrade demonstrates Verizon’s commitment to building infrastructure capable of handling the intensive data requirements of modern AI systems.

• The enhancement particularly benefits Generative AI applications, which require real-time analysis of billions of data points
• The upgrade leverages cloud-native architecture from core to edge, utilizing high-performing spectrum and expanded fiber infrastructure
• The implementation includes advanced technologies and intelligence throughout the network infrastructure

Leadership perspective: Key executives have highlighted the strategic importance of this network advancement for AI capabilities.

• Adam Koeppe, SVP of Technology Strategy and Planning at Verizon, emphasized the network’s enhanced ability to power AI-generated activities
• Brodie Gage from Ciena noted that WL6e is specifically designed to address AI traffic growth and bandwidth-intensive applications
• Verizon positions itself as the provider of choice for current and future AI workloads

Environmental impact: The technology upgrade brings significant sustainability benefits to Verizon’s network operations.

• The new system achieves a 50 percent reduction in space and power consumption per bit
• Ciena estimates an 86 percent reduction in emissions per terabit of capacity compared to previous technology
• These improvements demonstrate how network advancement can align with environmental responsibility

Market implications: The successful implementation of this advanced fiber network technology could reshape the competitive landscape for telecommunications providers serving AI-intensive industries and applications.