Network X brings together optical and IP transport priorities for connectivity teams planning for the AI bandwidth surge. The event positions optical transport as foundational to fixed access, mobile backhaul, cloud connectivity, and data centre interconnect (DCI), with demand framed around petabit-scale performance and extreme reliability.
The programme includes a Conference Track: IP Transport, covering operator upgrades from 800G to SRv6 and the use of software-defined innovation, network disaggregation, and automation. Key questions highlighted include preparing IP transport for AI-driven hyperscale traffic, whether SRv6 is the future of programmable networks, the business case for disaggregated and open IP networks, and how SDN and AI can improve automation and orchestration.
A second focus area, Conference Track: Optical Transport & DCI, explores coherent innovations, pluggables, open architectures, and photonic integration. The agenda prompts discussions on scaling 800G and 1.6T deployments across metro and long-haul, the potential of hollow core fiber and quantum security, and roadmaps for high-capacity, energy-efficient DCI networks.
The content also references global leaders such as Ciena, Nokia, and Huawei as part of the IP and optical transport innovation agenda, and notes that NGON has been integrated into the Network X programme. Workshops and roundtables are mentioned as part of the event format (alongside keynotes, panel discussions, and fireside chats).