Vodafone Idea (Vi) will be deploying 5th generation coherent optical solutions from Ciena to ensure backbone scalability and service resiliency.

Vi’s new 300G/400Gbackbone network increases scale and performance in an energy and cost-efficient manner.

“Preparing a future-fit network, through our partnership with Ciena, will enable Vi subscribers to experience world-class highly available, scalable connectivity and realize the benefits of cloud, IoT, and 5G in future,” said Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer, Vodafone Idea.

Increasing and changing traffic patterns across India require new levels of capacity, flexibility, resiliency, and programmability. With broader network coverage and faster broadband made possible by Ciena, Vi maximizes fiber capacity and network efficiencies to prepare for 5G.

Vi’s collaboration with Ciena is in line with the service provider’s strategy to build a future-fit network for emerging technologies such as 5G, to drive digital growth in India.

“Today’s competitive environment requires operators like Vi to operate a higher performing network with maximum agility at a lower cost per bit,” said Ryan Perera, Vice President and General Manager, Ciena India. “With the network playing an increasingly important role to support digital applications today, Vi’s transformed network is ready for prime time.”

Vi, the #3 telecom operator in India, has deployed Ciena’s 6500 packet-optical platform powered by WaveLogic 5 Extreme for high speed 300G/400G services, upgradable to 800G. Ciena’s Manage, Control and Plan (MCP) domain controller provides Vi with analytical insights to optimize network performance, enhancing its customers’ digital experiences.