This trial also aligns with the shift toward an open, software-centric network. Using open-source controller technology, the end-to-end service delivered across the AT&T OpenROADM metro network, utilizing Ciena optical equipment, offers greater flexibility and cost-effective services for customers. Prior to this successful trial, all other field demonstrations required multiple wavelengths to establish a 400 GbE connection.
Next-generation network speeds provide online video streaming services, search engines, and mobility companies with the ability to transfer massive amounts of data at record speeds. For example, a service provider could deliver:
- Approximately ten two-hour movies in less than one second.
- 100,000 movies streaming simultaneously.
AT&T also uses open-source white boxes to act as network equipment during the trials. This added flexibility helps control costs and create interoperability among the network's hardware elements.
Thanks to the successful completion of these trials, AT&T will be able to upgrade its network backbones to offer 400 GbE and prepare to deliver ultra-fast speeds to businesses, helping to meet their growing demand for more bandwidth.

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