Innovations in Optical Networking: Advancements by Internet2 and Cisco
Redefining Long-Haul Networking
Internet2 and Cisco have recently made waves in the realm of optical networking through a significant collaboration. This partnership culminated in a remarkable achievement: a seamless 400 Gbps link spanning over 3,000 km without the need for transponders or signal regeneration. This milestone was accomplished on the Internet2 national research and education (R&E) network, demonstrating advancements in coherent optics technologies.
Breakthrough in Coherent Optics
This substantial trial exemplifies the progress being made in coherent optical technologies, which are pivotal for enhancing efficiency and flexibility within high-performance networks. With coherent pluggable modules, the results showcase real-world advantages for the R&E community, including high-capacity point-to-point connectivity on demand, significantly reducing operational complexity, power requirements, and overall equipment needs.
Implementing Coherent Optics
Internet2's dedicated effort to deploy coherent pluggable optics began in 2023, aiming to enhance network capacity, efficiency, and scalability. By leveraging coherent optics, the organization has transformed its capabilities, reclaiming metro network capacity and augmenting medium-haul network links.
Currently, Internet2 integrates coherent optics directly into network routers across its operational footprint in the U.S. This strategy has allowed the utilization of 400 Gbps on both metropolitan networks and spans reaching up to 600 km. Notably, 24 of its backbone links are now equipped with Cisco's coherent optics, accounting for over 20% of Internet2's 400 Gbps infrastructure.
Chris Wilkinson, senior director of network infrastructure and operations at Internet2, reflected on this advancement: "Just a short time ago, we could only achieve 3,000 km distances using traditional module-based transponders, and the links were limited to 100 Gbps. Now, in collaboration with Cisco, Internet2 has demonstrated 400 Gbps at those same distances using coherent optics. This represents a remarkable improvement in achievable transmission distance, allowing us to provide highly efficient, targeted bandwidth to support emerging needs in the research and education community."
The Field Trial Process
The recent field trial utilized Cisco's QSFP-DD-based 400 Gbps Ultra Long Haul coherent optics, which operates on less than 24 watts of power. This innovative solution fits into existing 400G QSFP-DD platforms, showcasing its versatility. The crucial transmission components were part of Internet2's existing network infrastructure, incorporating Cisco 8201 routers powered by Cisco Silicon One, coupled with a third-party line system.
The trial highlighted the importance of a physical infrastructure primarily built with SMF-28 Ultra fiber, utilizing a streamlined yet highly effective EDFA-amplified architecture to address signal loss.
Bill Gartner, senior vice president and general manager of Optical Systems and Optics at Cisco, praised the collaborative efforts: "This breakthrough trial with Internet2 marks a game changer in long-haul networking. Cisco's next generation 400G ULH coherent optics redefine capacity and flexibility, delivering unmatched performance and efficiency across vast distances."
Envisioning a Sustainable Network Future
Internet2's mission has been to create a greener, more sustainable network infrastructure, aiming for speed and capabilities without compromising capacity. With recent advancements in optical and routing technologies, Internet2 has successfully reduced its colocation space requirements and cut power consumption by an impressive 68%.
As demand for high-speed connections escalates, maintaining efficiency without sacrificing quality is a continuous challenge. Furthermore, ensuring interoperability across a multi-vendor platform is vital for Internet2's ecosystem, facilitating seamless integration across the R&E network.
As Internet2 prepares for its next network evolution, the focus will be on optimizing routing, enhancing network integrity and transparency, and expanding support for both national and global research initiatives. These strategies reinforce the foundation of capacity-optimized optical and packet infrastructure, shaping the future of R&E networking.
About Internet2
Founded in 1996, Internet2 is a nonprofit, member-driven advanced technology community that includes the nation's leading higher education institutions. With 337 U.S. universities, 58 government agencies, and numerous regional education networks, Internet2 supports over 80,000 community anchor institutions worldwide.
The organization provides a rich array of technology solutions designed to harness, integrate, and amplify its members' strengths, thereby supporting their educational, research, and community service missions. As the largest and fastest research and education network in the nation, Internet2 delivers advanced, customized services, secured through community-developed trust and identity frameworks. For detailed information, visit the Internet2 website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the collaboration between Internet2 and Cisco?
The collaboration aims to enhance optical networking capabilities, demonstrating a notable 400 Gbps link over large distances without regeneration, setting new benchmarks for researchers.
How does coherent optics contribute to network efficiency?
Coherent optics allows high-capacity connectivity with reduced power consumption and hardware needs, simplifying complex network operations.
What advancements has Internet2 made in optical networking?
Internet2 has deployed coherent optics, significantly boosting the capacity and efficiency of its network and enabling 400 Gbps connectivity across various spans.
What future plans does Internet2 have for its network?
Internet2 is focused on optimizing routing and enhancing sustainability, while also expanding support for research initiatives at national and global levels.
How does Internet2 support the education sector?
With its advanced technology solutions and expansive network, Internet2 bolsters educational, research, and community service missions across a wide array of institutions.
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