Advanced network communications provider, Windstream is to build a national converged optical network (NCON) in order to connect cities across its U.S. network, to provide critical connectivity.
The high-speed network will further enable capacity between Windstream’s Tier 1, 2, and 3 markets to major U.S. data centres, cable landing stations, and cross-border gateways. It will leverage Ciena’s photonic, coherent optical, and intelligent software platforms to efficiently scale and dynamically adjust for optimal capacity on any path and avoid potential faults by automatically re-routing traffic based on available network resources.
The NCON architecture will enable Windstream to support rapidly evolving future technologies and growing bandwidth demands while maintaining the ability to support legacy networks and components. The key drivers include open connectivity, modularity, and software control, to ensure the network is future-proofed.
Ciena’s Waveserver 5 compact modular platform will be deployed, powered by the WaveLogic 5 Extreme 800G solution that allows for efficient, high-speed 100GbE and 400GbE client connectivity across any distance over programmable 400-800Gb/s wavelengths.
Additionally, the provider will use Ciena’s 6500 Reconfigurable Line System (RLS) and Manage, Control and Plan (MCP) domain controller, which will utilise automation features and operational diagnostics to identify and prevent potential connectivity issues. The Liquid Spectrum predictive analytics will act as the brains of the network to provide real-time visibility into network efficiency.
Buddy Bayer, chief network officer at Windstream said: ‘After extensive review in our quest to innovate and meet growing customer demands, it was clear that Ciena was the best partner to support our nationwide network transformation and ability to adapt to digital disruption. With NCON, Windstream will build an ultra-high capacity, intelligent network that will interoperate with our existing multi-vendor topology.’
Jason Phipps, senior vice president of global sales and marketing at Ciena added: ‘Windstream’s decision to partner with us again and build a world-class network that will span its entire U.S. footprint using our high-performance coherent optics and leading automation software not only demonstrates their industry leadership, but will help them deliver differentiated and innovative services while adapting to the disruptions and demands created by the digital economy.’
Windstream says it will start to deploy and turn-up traffic on the new network in the third quarter of this year.