Ciena Global Survey Explores Networking Needs for AI Era
Data Center experts predict at least 6X increase in DCI bandwidth demand over next 5 years, with
The survey, conducted in partnership with Censuswide, queried more than 1,300 data center decision makers across 13 countries. More than half (
To meet surging AI demands,
"AI workloads are reshaping the entire data center landscape, from infrastructure builds to bandwidth demand," said Jürgen Hatheier, Chief Technology Officer, International, Ciena. "Historically, network traffic has grown at a rate of 20
Creating More Sustainable AI-Driven Networks
Survey respondents confirm there is a growing opportunity for pluggable optics to support bandwidth demands and address power and space challenges. According to the survey,
Distributed Computing
The survey found that, as requirements for AI compute continue to increase, the training of Large Language Models (LLMs) will become more distributed across different AI data centers. According to the survey,
-
AI resource utilization over time is the top priority (
63% ) -
Reducing latency by placing inference compute closer to users at the edge (
56% ) -
Data sovereignty requirements (
54% ) -
Offering strategic locations for key customers (
54% )
Rather than deploying dark fiber, the majority (
"The AI revolution is not just about compute—it’s about connectivity," added Hatheier. "Without the right network foundation, AI’s full potential can’t be realized. Operators must ensure their DCI infrastructure is ready for a future where AI-driven traffic dominates."
The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 1303 25+ full time data center (DC) workers who are responsible for planning or purchasing data centre infrastructure. The markets covered are the US,
About Ciena
Ciena (NYSE: CIEN) is a global leader in networking systems, services, and software. We build the most adaptive networks in the industry, enabling customers to anticipate and meet ever-increasing digital demands. For three-plus decades, Ciena has brought our humanity to our relentless pursuit of innovation. Prioritizing collaborative relationships with our customers, partners, and communities, we create flexible, open, and sustainable networks that better serve all users—today and into the future. For updates on Ciena, follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, the Ciena Insights blog, or visit www.ciena.com.
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Source: Ciena Corporation