The popularity of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the convergence of voice and data networks are putting a great strain on classic copper-based Ethernet networks in terms of bandwidth. The networking journey always involves change, and the Passive Optical Network is a new way to structure a telecommunications network and to replace traditional structured cabling. Moreover, Passive Optical LAN technology could be the network extension solution needed to support the growing digital workloads of companies undergoing digital transformation.
Traditional copper-based networks face scaling difficulties
According to a recent Forrester study, most of the networks today have been designed with only IT connectivity in mind—not the real needs of the business. Organizations using traditional copper-based networks face scaling difficulties due to an increase in users and growing data traffic. If the network is not scaled effectively, business processes will be impacted negatively, and critical data transmission will be slowed or lost.
To support increased workloads, IT teams are usually tasked with expanding bandwidth. However, upgrading a traditional Ethernet network requires a significant amount of cabling and important construction work. In addition, more physical space is needed for extra cabling to accommodate the increased network traffic.
Ethernet networks typically require a server room in each building or in some cases, on each floor, depending on the requirements. If the environments are not carefully maintained and monitored to ensure cooling, there is a danger of fire.
Moving to a fully optical network could be an effective way to eliminate scaling issues, future-proof any network infrastructure, and reduce maintenance costs.
The main benefits of implementing Passive Optical Networks
Passive Optical LAN (POL) is a subset of optical networking technology under the umbrella of PON (Passive Optical Network). It uses passive optical cabling and single-mode fiber. Passive means that only the source and receiver require electrical power. The optical splitters in between are unpowered, which means that it doesn’t require battery backups and makes them less prone to failure as well as less expensive.
The Passive Optical LAN (POL) solution reaches directly to access points to reduce end cabling and provides high bandwidth with low latency (low delay). The hub-and-spoke architecture simplifies network design, and improves operations as well as maintenance efficiency—thereby providing a future-proof solution that protects enterprise investments.
Optical splitters are an essential component of a POL network due to the fact that it enables the deployment of a physical point-to-multipoint fiber network with a single optical line terminal (OLT) port serving multiple optical network units (ONUs). Splitters allow connections to ONU devices with limited cabling work, which significantly reduces operational workload. OLT monitoring software can examine the entire network, and alert operators when faults occur.
Key advantages of PON Internet
One of the most important benefits of PON technology is Internet speed. It can transmit data at a gigabyte per second (1Gbps) or more. The data transmission is also symmetrical, which means that it doesn’t matter if the data is traveling upstream or downstream. PON Internet can be highly beneficial for businesses with high download and upload demands.
But PON doesn’t just offer Internet access. A shared fiber can also support services like voice (phone service) and video in addition to the Internet. This means that your business can get all three services at high quality with one shared network.
PON is also scalable and a cost-effective technology. Due to the fact that it uses a single-optical fiber to support multiple users (point-to-multipoint), it costs less in infrastructure and material costs than the active point-to-point systems. Moreover, PONs are flexible and scalable. As your business and network grows, you will have the support you need for your evolving bandwidth needs.
Another big advantage is that fiber is more reliable than other technologies. Fiber cabling is small, light, flexible, and easy to route through buildings. Also, since it doesn’t use electricity to transmit data, fiber isn’t affected by electromagnetic interferences.
Passive Optical LAN market size is expected to grow
Market revenue figures show that the Passive Optical LAN market is poised for rapid growth. According to a TechNavio study published in February 2022, global POL revenue will grow by $21.85 billion over the next five years, with an annual revenue growth rate of 17%.
Among the key factors driving the Passive Optical LAN market growth is the high demand for high-speed broadband services. The key markets will be the US, Singapore, South Korea, Canada, and Sweden.
Conclusion
The increased adoption of cloud-based services and the high demand for high-speed broadband services are putting a lot of strain on the existing networks. With its cost-effectiveness and scalability, Passive Optical Networks are game-changers.
