Optical Networking Challenge 1: How do we create the optical economics that will allow us to connect the next billion people?

Why is it difficult?

The optical fiber network is considered the backbone of the modern communication system. They carry more than tera-Hertz data from the large-scale wireless deployment to the backend servers. Such a high-speed wireless link with a fast backhaul is available only in many nations, including the USA. There is still a large population in Asia and Africa using 3G networks, and some places don’t even have any network coverage. The cost of deployment of wireless infrastructure along with the optical backhaul is high. So, the challenge is to make the broadband connection economic so that it can reach the next billion people.

What is the impact?

Achieving this goal would allow internet access to every part of the world and make people connected, safe, and up-to-date with modern technology. It will enable dependent internet services such as advanced healthcare, tech industries, and humanitarian assistance to reach remote parts of under-developed nations and improve people’s life.