Current networks, originally designed for traditional cloud computing, are inadequate for the complex data transfer needs of AI, necessitating a shift to a more interconnected network fabric.

In partnership with Corning, Lumen is utilizing high-density fiber-optic cables that can contain between 800 to 1,700 strands, which reduces latency and accelerates deployment through existing infrastructure.

Lumen Technologies has secured $8.5 billion in AI-related deals, signaling a significant investment reminiscent of the broadband boom as the company prepares for increasing demands.

Kye Prigg, executive vice president of Lumen, highlights the necessity for low-latency, reliable connectivity to support the future of AI, leading to the deployment of over 20,000 miles of advanced fiber-optic cable across the U.S.

To facilitate this transition, optical relays will be installed every 50 miles along major routes, allowing for on-the-fly bandwidth provisioning and simplifying multicloud environments for AI applications.

The new approach to network design emphasizes heavy data flows between clouds, which requires increased capacity and optimized infrastructure for large-scale point-to-point traffic.

The geography of the new network is strategically influenced by energy access, prioritizing regions with excess power availability for future data centers.

The physical architecture of the internet is undergoing a comprehensive transformation to meet the unprecedented demands of AI workloads, with a strong focus on improving bandwidth connectivity.

This network buildout is one of the largest fiber deployments in the telecom industry, featuring hundreds of relay stations to enhance connectivity.

Lumen is reserving substantial dark fiber capacity to enable enterprises to access bandwidth on demand, thereby streamlining the setup process for customers.