Openreach deploy Ciena’s 1.6Tbps Waveserver tech across UK fibre network

Network access provider Openreach (BT) have begun deploying Ciena’s Waveserver (WaveLogic 6) technology across their UK full fibre network for network operators, which will help to support their existing and future Optical Spectrum Extended Access (OSEA) products, including via national 800G (Gbps) services for the first time.

Ciena’s WaveLogic 6 is an advanced optical networking technology that can transport up to 1.6Tbps (Terabits of data per second) across a single wavelength of light. The goal of this upgrade is to help their wholesale customers meet future demands for capacity as Openreach continues to grow across cloud services, international subsea connections, and data centres.

The new tech will enable Openreach to offer tailored network solutions serving specialist locations, such as Cable Landing Stations (CLS), access and backhaul services to Core intersect nodes and DCs. The solution includes the deployment of 400G and 800G client traffic over dedicated 1.6Tbps wavelengths, with a 2RU chassis supporting up to 32 x 400G services. Lovely.

“This significantly expands the range of high-capacity services Openreach can offer. It also introduces national 800G services for the first time and creates a clear path to even faster services as customers’ needs grow,” said the announcement.

Nicolas Lemaitre, Openreach’s Director of Products, said:

“Demand for fast, reliable connectivity is growing rapidly. This investment shows how Openreach is strengthening its network to support wholesale customers across the UK. By using Ciena’s Waveserver and WL6 technology, we’re preparing our services for the next wave of digital growth, including increasing demand from AI applications and Critical National Infrastructure.”

Ciena said they will also provide specialist support to help Openreach deploy, proactively monitor and maintain its OSEA optical product. This continues their long-standing partnership, while helping Openreach to introduce new services more quickly. None of this should be confused with direct consumer broadband connections via FTTP, although there is a complementary relationship as the “heavy machinery” in the background.