The Deep Edge Podcast
The Deep Edge Podcast discusses technologies powering a cloud-native, fully connected world: Virtual and physical compute; virtual and physical networking; orchestration; mobile/wireless, wired; Internet of things; NFV; SDN; routing and switching; optical; cable; and hyper-scalers. We deliver the skills, insights, and materials to help our subscribers master their own transformations.
The Deep Edge Podcast
Navigating AI & Global Networking: Power, Bandwidth, and Data Center Evolution with Arelion | Ep 61
Welcome to episode 61 of the Deep Edge Podcast. In this episode, I take a deep dive into the fascinating crossroads of AI and global networking, dissecting a conversation that covers everything from hyper-scale data centers to the evolving challenges of network resiliency. I interview Mattias Fridström, Chief Evangelist for Arelion.
Key Themes Explored:
• AI’s Insatiable Appetite for Bandwidth:
The dialogue highlights how artificial intelligence is not just a trend but a transformative force that’s driving unprecedented traffic demands. We explore the shift from traditional data center models—where fiber availability was king—to a future where power capacity dictates data center location, setting a new benchmark for infrastructure design.
• Optical Innovations & Network Scalability:
Our guest unpacks the critical role of optical technology, such as NX 400G systems and dark fiber solutions, in managing the surge in data flow. As we approach the physical limits of fiber capacity, the industry is forced to adopt innovative strategies—like deploying multiple fiber pairs—to keep pace with AI’s growing needs.
• Resiliency in a High-Demand World:
With AI applications becoming mission-critical, even a few milliseconds of downtime can be catastrophic. We delve into how network operators are rethinking resiliency, moving from dual-route redundancies to multi-path, 100% diverse connectivity solutions that guarantee uninterrupted service.
• Ecosystem & Automation:
The conversation shifts to the importance of collaboration and automation in this new era. No single operator can meet the AI-driven demand alone. The future lies in an ecosystem approach where telecom providers, regional partners, and utility companies work in unison, augmented by AI-powered automation that transforms manual operations into proactive, data-driven decision-making.
This episode encapsulates a forward-thinking discussion on how our industry must evolve to support the next generation of AI technologies. It’s a journey through the technical intricacies and strategic shifts that will define the future of global networking. Tune in to explore how the convergence of AI and connectivity is reshaping our digital landscape.
— Ray Mota, Host of the Deep Edge Podcast