NTT: optical networks become core to AI data center infrastructure

NTT Global Data Centers says AI workloads are reshaping network architecture, demanding flatter, more deterministic fabrics, higher fiber density and tighter integration with power and cooling. Higher-speed 400G, 800G and 1.6T optics extend existing fiber, but won't eliminate the need for new fiber as AI traffic scales.

• AI traffic demands flatter, low-latency and highly deterministic networks
• 400G, 800G and 1.6T optics extend the life of existing fiber
• AI traffic growth will still require targeted new fiber expansion
• Networks are shifting from plumbing to core AI infrastructure