KDDI, Cisco Systems, and Fujitsu Limited have announced the commencement of full operations of their metropolitan area network starting on October 1, 2023. The metropolitan area network is an integrated regional network that combines IP-layer and optical transport-layer networks to streamline operations.
This network configuration employs Cisco's NCS5500 series routers, which integrate IP and optical transport layers, enabling direct transmission and reception of WDM optical signals. It utilizes Fujitsu's 1FINITY series open line system (OLS) to connect with other companies' products through open interfaces. Compared to traditional WDM configurations connecting routers and responders, this approach reduces the number of devices and decreases power consumption by approximately 40%. The new configuration also enhances scalability, allowing for rapid responses to increasing communication traffic. KDDI plans to deploy the metropolitan area network nationwide in Japan by the end of the fiscal year 2028.
With the widespread adoption and use of 5G services across Japan, the number of users for video and other data-intensive services is increasing, leading to a rapid surge in data traffic. KDDI aims to achieve net-zero carbon dioxide emissions from its non-consolidated business operations by the fiscal year 2030, making it necessary to reduce the power consumption of its entire business. The rapid expansion of network infrastructure to cope with the increased traffic presents an ongoing challenge to this goal.
Cisco is expanding its network complexity technologies, simplifying and automating network and device operations to realize an inclusive future beyond the 5G/6G era. They are also developing sustainable technologies and practices for the environment and business.
Fujitsu is actively working on creating a future-ready, human-centric network, from 5G and 6G technologies to optical backbone networks. By widely deploying low-power network products in the market, they are supporting telecom operators in achieving carbon neutrality.