Telstra upgrading optical network to 400GE

Telstra is upgrading its next-generation optical network to quadruple its service capacity to 400 Gbps Ethernet (400GE).

The company has contracted Ericsson and Ciena to complete the upgrade to the optical network, which provides connectivity between Telstra’s IP routers and switches. The deployment will initially be used for Telstra’s internet traffic and broadband connectivity.

The upgrade will use Ciena’s 6500 Packet-Optical Platform and Ericsson’s core equipment to support the delivery of 400GE using the same physical footprint as 100GE.

Telstra Executive for Network and Infrastructure Iskra Nikolova said the upgrade has been motivated by the ever increasing growth in demand for bandwidth.

“We’re seeing traffic demands for mobile and fixed growing at over 40% and around 25% per annum respectively, driven by more people working from home and higher bandwidth requirements,” she said.

“This is due to the rising demands of video streaming and online gaming, as well as increased requirements for cloud and data centre connectivity.”

Ciena Australia and New Zealand Regional MD Matthew Vesperman added that the upgrade is another example of Telstra’s forward-thinking approach.

“Innovative network providers like Telstra are constructing adaptive networks that can not only scale but also dynamically respond to unpredictable traffic requirements,” he said.

“Ciena’s 6500 platform powered by WaveLogic optics combines the required capabilities and software intelligence, providing optical network efficiencies while optimising its footprint, power and capacity.”

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Casimiro