Dark fiber networks offer a plethora of opportunities for businesses and service providers seeking to expand their network capabilities. Major telecom companies can benefit from laying down these fiber lines and are rapidly doing so, especially across large stretches of land and fast-developing cities.
What is the Appeal of Dark Fiber Networks?
Dark fiber routes are optical fibers laid underground that are not lit by any data transmission signals or service. These cables are often deployed with the foresight to quench future needs of the ever-increasing demand for speedy, robust bandwidth. Dark fiber can be very appealing to businesses for a variety of reasons.
- Scalability & Reliability – Dark fiber routes are not pre-lit, allowing companies to use their own chosen equipment and protocols when leasing these lines. This means these fiber route networks can be upgraded or changed by simply changing the equipment at the end of each fiber strand to keep up with bandwidth demand. Moreover, if there is a network issue, having control of the line enables the lease owner to fix the issue themselves, minimizing downtime and lowering maintenance costs.
- Increased Security – Outside users can’t track or record transmitted data as dark fiber networks are privately owned and operated by the entity leasing them. Dedicated connectivity makes dark fiber networks more secure, especially for organizations that manage sensitive data.
- Cost Effective – While the initial investment in dark fiber may be higher for the company installing it, it actually provides revenue by eliminating the recurring costs associated with leased lines and provides the freedom to use the network as needed. It also is cheaper for other telcos to lease dark fiber lines than installing their own.
Dark Fiber at Work
Dark fiber networks have been around for some time, spanning back to the 1980s when communications companies would install more fiber optic cables than what was needed. This in turn would cut the labor cost of installing more fiber in the future. ResurgenceIG purchasing Strome Fiber Holdings to expand its dark fiber network across state borders and Zayo’s dark network in Colorado spanning over 1,600 miles are just some examples of companies working to expand the reach of dark fiber networks over the years. And the trend hasn’t slowed down.
Windstream Wholesale, a provider of advanced network communications and technology solutions, has recently expanded its Beach Route Dark Fiber Alliance to include 360 miles of dark fiber along Florida’s beaches, running from Jacksonville down to sunny Miami. The expansion not only connects South Florida hot spots but is also set to enhance connectivity options for international data traffic between North America, Latin America, and Europe.
Another major development is Light Source Communication’s planned dark fiber network that will spread 140 miles across the Phoenix metropolitan area connecting 9 cities and several data centers. What makes this project neat is that it is being built to withstand the robust needs of hyperscalers, a rising trend in data center management, and will offer high levels of data capacity, scalability, and reliability that can handle AI, Internet of Things, and other innovative technologies.
Dark Fiber Networks Are a Way of the Future
Demand for high-speed internet and data center connectivity is driving the need for stronger, more flexible network infrastructures. Dark fiber routes, whether stretching across sandy beaches or through rapidly growing cities, provide the reliability and increased security their connections require, not to mention the savings in cost. By installing dark fiber, providers and businesses will be well-positioned to leverage new advancements and emerging technologies for years to come.
As telecommunications infrastructure rapidly evolves, GeoTel can offer comprehensive datasets on carrier fiber routes, fiber-lit buildings, cell towers, and much more to keep you in the know and offer insight to make intelligent, location-based decisions. Contact our specialists for a free demo to learn how our data can benefit your organization today!
