Network News: Level 3, CENX, Ciena

Here’s our review of some of today’s noteworthy links for the networking sector of the data center industry:

DISA selects Level 3 for multi-million dollar order: Level 3 Communications (LVLT) announced that the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) has issued initial task orders to Level 3 to provide dedicated fiber-cable operations and maintenance support, and IP-based infrastructure under a 10-year contract with a maximum value of approximately $410.8 million. Level 3 will provide Managed Capacity and Transport Services (MCTS), fiber infrastructure and maintenance support, IP-based infrastructure, and professional support services to connect various Department of Defense (DoD) locations. "Level 3's dedicated, robust infrastructure will help DISA support the DoD's growing demand for bandwidth, enable initiatives that will improve security, and increase efficiency by reducing disparate and legacy telecommunications networks," said Edward Morche, senior vice president of Level 3's Government Markets Group. "Beyond expanding its IP backbone network with Level 3, DISA will also have dedicated professional support from an organization that understands the mission critical nature of DISA's requirements."

CENX announces Ethernet backhaul management services:  Carrier Ethernet exchange company CENX announced the availability of a new set of innovative services designed to efficiently provision and manage Ethernet Backhaul Services for any Mobile Operator or Carrier using, deploying or planning on including Ethernet in their network. As a turnkey service it provides for installing, and managing all Ethernet Backhaul Services from over 400 local access providers, and gives real-time simplified visibility through a robust management system. “We are excited to offer our industry-leading Ethernet knowledge and expertise that dramatically helps increase efficiencies and reduce the costs associated with procuring and managing critical Ethernet Backhaul circuits within their networks,” said Mr. Hribar. “CENX has some of the most knowledgeable Ethernet experts in the industry, and we have used this expertise to develop a platform that delivers tremendous value to Mobile Operators and Carriers around the world.”

Ciena lights 100G European link for C&W:  Ciena Corporation (CIEN) announced it was selected by Cable & Wireless (CWW) to build a European 100G coherent network using Ciena's 6500 Packet-Optical Platform with WaveLogic coherent optical processors. The link is more than 2,800 km (1,740 miles) and connects London to Monaco with drop-off points in Milan, Frankfurt, Dusseldorf and Amsterdam. A key driver for increased capacity requirements will be the Europe India Gateway (EIG), a submarine link between Western Europe and Mumbai, India, which is expected to carry backbone traffic to London, United Kingdom. Ciena’s technology enabled CWW to simply add the 100G wavelength alongside existing in-service 40G channels. “The explosive demand for capacity promises to continue as the number of public and private network connections increases for consumers and businesses and as these connections support bandwidth-intensive applications such as video and remote storage," said John Paul Hemingway, EMEA vice president of strategic development at Ciena. "Addressing this challenge requires a future-proof network that combines intelligence and high capacity – and that is where Ciena’s intelligent infrastructure comes in. A long-term Ciena partner, Cable&Wireless Worldwide is making a highly progressive move in Europe with the region’s longest coherent 100G link, which forms the basis for a resilient, scalable and flexible backbone network.”