KDDI, Cisco, and Fujitsu Start Full-scale Operation of Telecommunications Network

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KDDI Corporation, Cisco Systems G.K, and Fujitsu Limited announced that on Oct 1st, 2023 they have started full-scale operations of the metro network, a regional network that combines the IP layer network and optical transmission layer network for streamlined operations.

The metro network features a configuration that integrates the IP layer and optical transmission layer by using Cisco NCS5500 series routers, which can directly transmit and receive optical signals for WDM, and Fujitsu's 1FINITY series Open Line System (OLS), which can be connected to other companies’ products through an open interface. This approach makes it possible to reduce the number of devices compared to a conventional configuration that connects a router and a transponder for WDM, reducing power consumption by approximately 40%. The new configuration also makes it easier to expand capacity, enabling rapid response to increases in communications traffic. KDDI plans to deploy the metro network across Japan by the end of fiscal 2028.

Background

With the nationwide rollout of 5G services in Japan, which are now in widespread use, the number of users of video and other data-intensive services is increasing, and the volume of communications is growing rapidly. KDDI aims to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions in its non-consolidated business activities by FY2030, which will make it necessary to reduce power consumption throughout its business. The rapid expansion of network infrastructure to cope with the increases in communication volume present an ongoing challenge to this objective.

Features of the metro network

KDDI has introduced this configuration to its metro network in some areas of Japan starting in 2021. As KDDI has confirmed stable operation, it will start full-scale operations to accommodate multiple services such as 5G, au HIKARI, and corporate VPN.