Windstream Wholesale and VIAVI Collaborate on World’s First Transatlantic 800G Network Trial

Chandler, Ariz. &. Little Rock, Ark., December 11, 2024 – Windstream Wholesale, a leading provider of advanced network solutions, announced in October the successful completion of the world’s first 800 Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) transatlantic service trial in partnership with Colt Technology Services and Nokia. This groundbreaking achievement was bolstered by the cutting-edge testing solutions and technical expertise provided by VIAVI Solutions Inc., ensuring a rapid and seamless deployment.

Spanning over 8,500 kilometers of subsea and terrestrial fiber between Chicago and London, the transatlantic 800G service trial utilized Nokia’s advanced Photonic Service Interconnect-Modular (PSI-M) platform. At the heart of validating this accomplishment was VIAVI’s comprehensive testing solutions, which included pre-deployment assessments of optical modules and network transport equipment, and in-service bi-directional traffic generation at the challenging 800G speeds.

VIAVI played a crucial role by conducting several days of pre-deployment soak testing on Nokia 800G optical modules and network equipment using the VIAVI ONT-800 FLEX XPM test sets. This rigorous testing ensured seamless integration of hardware, software, and infrastructure components, effectively addressing technical issues at both ends of the optical link. Additionally, the VIAVI ONT-800 FLEX XPM generated 800G data streams to validate the 800G services from end to end, Chicago to London, validating long-term service stability and error-free transmission. The thoroughness of VIAVI’s approach increased the probability of successful hardware and software integration, significantly reduced post-deployment troubleshooting needs, and accelerated validation of the 800G service buildout.

The collaboration with VIAVI not only facilitated a successful trial but also ensures that Windstream Wholesale can deliver unprecedented bandwidth capabilities, essential for AI-powered applications and high-performance network solutions. The trial represents a significant step forward in global connectivity, offering enhanced service reliability and performance for Windstream's customers.

VIAVI’s commitment to strong partnerships and exceptional customer support was evident throughout the project. Their extensive pre-deployment component, software, and system testing, along with on-site setup and remote application engineering expertise, played a crucial role in overcoming deployment challenges.

"We are thrilled to have achieved this groundbreaking milestone in the 800G transatlantic service trial, which underscores Windstream Wholesale's commitment to pushing the boundaries of optical networking technology,” said Joe Scattareggia, president of Windstream Wholesale. “Our collaboration with VIAVI Solutions has been instrumental in this success, reflecting our strategic pillar of fostering strong partnerships. VIAVI's expertise and innovative testing solutions have ensured a seamless deployment, allowing us to deliver unprecedented bandwidth capabilities. This trial not only enhances our service offerings but also strengthens our position as a leader in the industry."

"We are honored to be part of the world's first 800G optical and IP service trial, spanning terrestrial and transatlantic networks with Windstream," said Tom Fawcett, senior vice president and general manager, Lab and Production at VIAVI. "This technical achievement underscores VIAVI's commitment to our customers, offering cutting-edge testing solutions and expert support to help them reach their objectives."

Looking forward, this successful trial underscores Windstream Wholesale's commitment to technological innovation and leadership in the telecommunications industry. The partnership with VIAVI, Colt, and Nokia not only demonstrates the power of collaboration but also sets a new benchmark in optical networking capabilities.

To view the complete nationwide Windstream Wholesale network, visit https://www.windstreamwholesale.com/network-map/

About Windstream Wholesale

Windstream Wholesale is an innovative optical technology leader that delivers fast, flexible, and customized wavelength and dark fiber solutions to carriers, content providers, and hyperscalers in the U.S. and Canada. Windstream Wholesale is one of three brands managed by Windstream. The company’s quality-first approach connects customers to new opportunities and possibilities by delivering a full suite of advanced communications services. Windstream also offers fiber-based broadband to residential and small business customers in 18 states as well as managed cloud communications and security services to mid-to-large enterprises and government entities across the U.S. Windstream is a privately held company headquartered in Little Rock, Ark. Additional information about Windstream Wholesale is available at windstreamwholesale.com. Follow us on X (Twitter) @Windstream and LinkedIn at @Windstream.

About VIAVI

VIAVI (NASDAQ: VIAV) is a global provider of network test, monitoring and assurance solutions for telecommunications, cloud, enterprises, first responders, military, aerospace and railway. VIAVI is also a leader in light management technologies for 3D sensing, anti-counterfeiting, consumer electronics, industrial, automotive, government and aerospace applications. Learn more about VIAVI at www.viavisolutions.com. Follow us on VIAVI Perspectives, LinkedIn and YouTube.