Communications Service Providers Eye 800G Coherent Pluggable Optics for Future Networks

What's Happening?

Communications service providers (CSPs) are increasingly interested in adopting 800G coherent pluggable optics as part of their network infrastructure. According to a survey conducted by Heavy Reading, now part of Omdia, CSPs are planning to integrate these optics into their long-haul and metro networks over the next few years. The survey, which included responses from 80 CSPs globally, revealed that while 400G and 100G data rates remain essential, 800G is expected to become a significant contributor by 2028. The survey also highlighted the importance of multi-vendor interoperability in IP over DWDM architectures, with 67% of CSPs expressing a desire for full interoperability among coherent pluggables.

Why It's Important?

The move towards 800G coherent pluggable optics represents a significant shift in the telecommunications industry, promising to enhance network capacity and efficiency. This development is crucial for CSPs as they strive to meet the growing demand for high-speed data transmission. The adoption of 800G optics could lead to improved service delivery and reduced operational costs, benefiting both providers and consumers. Additionally, the emphasis on multi-vendor interoperability could foster a more competitive market, encouraging innovation and potentially lowering costs for CSPs.

What's Next?

As CSPs plan to deploy 800G coherent pluggable optics between 2026 and 2028, the industry can expect a gradual transition towards these higher data rates. The focus on interoperability suggests that CSPs will continue to work towards integrating multi-vendor solutions, which may involve in-house or outsourced integration testing. The successful adoption of 800G optics will likely depend on overcoming technical challenges and ensuring compatibility across different network components.