30. Dez. 2024
KT is deploying Ciena's WaveLogic 6 Extreme (WL6e) to boost network speeds. The technology will increase data center transmission speeds by 2.6 times and double backbone network speeds, supporting AI-driven traffic growth and Korea's digital transformation.
South Korean telecom operator KT has announced plans to deploy Ciena's WaveLogic 6 Extreme (WL6e) technology in the first half of 2025, aiming to address the growing customer demand for services beyond 400GbE. This deployment follows successful trials where KT achieved remarkable data transmission speeds: 1.2 Tb/s over long-distance routes between Seoul and Busan and 1.6 Tb/s over medium-distance routes between Seoul and Cheonan.
Enhanced Network Performance with WL6e
KT projects that with the implementation of WL6e, the data transmission speeds between metropolitan data centers will improve by approximately 2.6 times compared to previous versions, while the speed of the nationwide backbone network will double. This technological upgrade will enable KT to meet escalating bandwidth demands driven by advanced AI applications, cloud computing, and data-intensive services.
The WL6e solution is designed to optimize high-capacity, low-latency data transport, making it an ideal choice for next-generation routing data paths and real-time processing needs. Moreover, paired with Ciena's Navigator Network Control Suite, KT will leverage automation to optimize its multi-layer network. This will enhance operational flexibility, streamline network management, and improve the delivery of reliable and high-speed services to end customers.
Support for AI-Driven Network Traffic Growth
Ciena’s WL6e system incorporates cutting-edge coherent digital signal processing (DSP) technology, which not only improves performance but also enhances energy efficiency. This will allow KT to effectively support the surging demand for AI-driven network traffic and accommodate the country’s accelerating digital transformation.
Henry Kim, Regional Managing Director for North Asia at Ciena, commented:
“We have been working closely with KT to achieve connectivity milestones in South Korea. Last year, we successfully deployed the first 600G transmission route. With WL6e, we are now set to deliver 1.2 Tb/s nationwide, providing the boost necessary to support the growing AI-driven traffic and digital innovation in Korea.”
Strengthening South Korea’s Digital Future
KT's decision to implement WL6e marks a significant step in enhancing its network infrastructure. By embracing cutting-edge technologies, the telecom operator is well-positioned to deliver next-level services and ensure a robust digital foundation for South Korea's future.
This upgrade further demonstrates KT's commitment to staying ahead in the global telecom race, supporting both its customers' increasing data demands and the country’s ambitions in the AI and digital innovation sectors.