Verizon taps Juniper Networks for core network upgrade

Verizon announced plans to upgrade older router equipment in its fiber network with new equipment capable of using the latest 400-Gbps-per-port optical technology. That equipment will come from Juniper Networks. Upon completion of the overhaul, Verizon says it will manage 115 Tbps of data at any given moment.

Last June, Verizon announced a 249% increase in data traffic on its 5G ultra-wideband network. The new optical core, being built through 2032, is upgradeable to 800 Gbps and 1 Tbps per port and will allow Verizon to manage 230 Tbps of data.

“Our fiber network is the largely invisible foundation that is a key driving force behind providing the scalability and reliability our customers need and expect,” says Kyle Malady, executive vice president and president of global networks and technology at Verizon. “This new packet core will provide the reliability and capacity we need today, but more importantly will be able to scale to meet the forecasted future demands that will result from the incredible capabilities of our robust 5G network, the platform for 21st century innovation.”

New equipment provided by Juniper Networks will reduce space, power, and cost requirements, according to Verizon. Advanced automation levels promise to make Verizon’s network more reliable, programmable, and efficient, while more equipment density equates to the ability to add an additional layer of redundancy across the network.

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