News and perspectives from the world of fiber optic networking

• Fiber network industry and markets
• Communications service providers
• Fiber deployment

Faster fibre rollouts start with smarter infrastructure sharing

In a world increasingly defined by speed, connectivity, and digital equity, building faster broadband infrastructure is a national and social imperative. Governments across the globe are pushing for widespread fibre deployment to close the digital divide and supercharge economic development.¹ But as telcos race to deliver, one big question looms: How do we scale quickly, affordably, and sustainably?

The answer, in part, lies in better collaboration, specifically in smarter ways of managing shared fibre infrastructure. But here’s the catch: sharing infrastructure only works if the systems that underpin it are modern, live, and interoperable. Too often, they’re not. And the consequences can be surprisingly disruptive.

• Telecom technologies
• Fiber deployment
• 3-GIS | Diagramming

Clarity that connects: The power of real-time telecom network views

Whether rolling out networks to dense urban MDUs (multi-dwelling units) or extending the last mile to rural households, telcos are navigating a minefield of evolving infrastructure, tight delivery deadlines, and increasing demand for accelerated service turn-up. Amidst this whirlwind, one element stands out as a surprisingly pivotal force in keeping operations efficient and accurate: real-time network diagramming.

• Utilities
• Communications service providers
• Fiber deployment

Fibre at the core: Powering the smart cities of tomorrow

One global report estimated that the smart city platform market is set to be worth $292.1 billion by 2028, the primary factor driving this growth being various government initiatives to develop digitised, smart city infrastructure.¹ Meanwhile, at a European level at least, FTTH Council reports that full fibre coverage across the continent has reached 74.6%.² As these two trends converge, the message is clear: the future of smart cities and the expansion of fibre networks are not just parallel initiatives—they are fundamentally connected.

• Internet service
• Communications service providers
• Altnets
• FTTH

From buildout to buy-in: What's driving full fibre take-up in the UK?

The UK’s full fibre broadband market is at a critical inflection point. With billions invested in network buildouts over the past few years, the focus has firmly shifted to take-up—how many households are actually subscribing to services. Several recent industry reports have provided various insights and discussions around the current state of play and what’s shaping adoption across the country.

• Fiber network management
• Telecom technologies
• Communications service providers

The case for a scalable physical network inventory

With the surge in fibre network rollouts, the demands on network management solutions are greater than ever. Yet, many telcos are still navigating the complexities of managing their operations without a solid, scalable physical network inventory (PNI) solution at the heart of their infrastructure.

• Fiber network industry and markets
• Communications service providers
• Fiber deployment

Navigating the changing telecom landscape: Strategies for success

The telecom industry stands at the intersection of rapid innovation and shifting challenges. Economic uncertainties, increasing pricing pressures, and evolving customer demands create a landscape where agility and adaptability are more critical than ever. Amid these changes, the industry remains resilient and optimistic, underpinned by significant investments in infrastructure, innovation, and customer-centric strategies. 

• Fiber network management
• App modernization
• Communications service providers

What makes fibre networks so hard to manage? Solutions to ease the strain

Managing a sprawling fibre network is a complex undertaking. From maintaining accurate asset records to planning for growth, telecom operators face persistent challenges. Overcoming these obstacles is essential not only for maintaining operational reliability but also for meeting the increasing demand for high-speed internet. So, what are these challenges, and how can operators effectively address them?

• Fiber network industry and markets
• Communications service providers
• Altnets

Storming ahead: Reflections from the 2024 INCA Summit

As Storm Bert lashed south Wales, disrupting travel and threatening attendance, the Independent Networks Cooperative Association (INCA) Summit 2024 weathered the storm—both literally and metaphorically. Held at the International Convention Centre in Newport, the summit provided an opportunity for the UK's AltNet community to reflect on challenges, celebrate progress, and plan for a future of connectivity in a turbulent industry landscape. Here are some key insights from the summit’s thought-provoking agenda.