The blog delves into the latest data center requirements and how Cisco is meeting them with new routed optical networking solutions. Traditionally, transporting data between geographically distributed data centers required leasing high-capacity circuits from service providers or investing in dedicated optical transport networks. However now, Cisco data center interconnect (DCI) connections over dark fiber, using coherent pluggable optics, offer a strategic alternative that reduces both the cost and complexity of connecting data centers to support AI applications. Read the blog for details.
What is Data Center Interconnect (DCI)?
Data Center Interconnect (DCI) refers to the technology and methods used to connect geographically distributed data centers. Traditionally, this involved leasing high-capacity circuits from service providers or investing in dedicated optical transport networks. However, advancements like DCI connections over dark fiber using coherent pluggable optics are reshaping this landscape, offering a more cost-effective and less complex solution.
How does leasing dark fiber benefit enterprises?
Leasing dark fiber allows enterprises to create their own private networks, giving them control over data traffic without the recurring costs associated with traditional bandwidth usage. This approach not only mitigates financial burdens as capacity demands increase but also provides scalability and improved security. For instance, the State of Maryland saved over $111 million annually by utilizing dark fiber for its DCI needs.
What is Routed Optical Networking?
Routed Optical Networking is a solution that integrates IP and optical networks, simplifying DCI architectures by reducing the need for dedicated optical transponders. This approach can decrease the total cost of ownership for DCI applications by approximately 48%, while also lowering capital expenditures by 60%. It streamlines network management and enhances performance, making it a practical choice for enterprises facing increasing data demands.