Ericsson and Ciena, Telstra enhance service capacity for Telstra's optical network

Ericsson, Telstra, and Ciena have announced new enhancements to Telstra's Next Generation Optical Network, which will increase the service capacity of Telstra's optical network to 400 GE (Gigabit per Second Ethernet).

Representatives say the new enhancements will create better solutions for customers and enhance business operations across the full spectrum of services.

Telstra's optical network currently provides connectivity between Telstra's IP routers and switches, and this deployment will initially be used for Telstra's internet traffic and broadband connectivity.

Transmitted over Ciena's 6500 Packet-Optical Platform using their latest optical modem technology WaveLogic 5 Extreme (WL5E), the upgrade from a 100 GE to a 400 GE interface will improve optical network performance and service capacity while reducing power inefficiencies in the optical network.

The 400 GE interface also has the same physical footprint as its 100 GE counterparts, providing a sustainable upgrade path without compromising on any physical restrictions. It provides four times the service capacity while still reducing power consumption of the optical network.

Telstra executive for network and infrastructure Iskra Nikolova says the increased demands due to hybrid work situations and pandemic constraints have prompted the change, and the development will allow for better scalability.

"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. This is due to the rising demands of video streaming and online gaming, as well as increased requirements for cloud and data center connectivity," she says.

"Increasing the ability to interface into Telstra's Next Generation Optical Network will allow us to scale more efficiently and provide an enhanced experience for our mobile, fixed broadband, enterprise and wholesale customers."

Ericsson head of ANZ Emilio Romeo believes the new development will create better outcomes for all involved, and the company is proud to be part of the rollout.

"This milestone achievement will ensure that Telstra's Next Generation Optical Network has the capabilities to meet existing and future demands from its customers," he says.

'Here at Ericsson, we are proud to work with Telstra and Ciena in providing network services that will benefit all Australians."

Ciena regional managing director for Australia and New Zealand Matthew Vesperman agrees, saying that it will greatly benefit Ciena's operations.

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

"Cienas 6500 platform powered by WaveLogic optics combines the required capabilities and software intelligence, providing optical network efficiencies while optimising its footprint, power, and capacity."