- AI demand is surging, but most networks aren't ready for the AI revolution.
- Enterprises face challenges updating outdated systems and ensuring critical connectivity.
- Lumen Technologies offers scalable, rapidly deployable networks to meet AI and data demands.
The insatiable demand for AI is growing across organizations of all shapes and sizes. By 2030, the data pool we're all drawing from will grow to more than 660 zetabytes of data, enough to fill 610 iPhones full for every single individual on the planet. Yet 86% of chief information officers don't think their enterprise networks are ready for the AI revolution, according to IDC — and that's before you account for the Internet of Things, cloud computing, and the drive to digital transformation.
But decision-makers are challenged in two ways. They have to act fast to get a handle on a complicated, tech-centric world, while also updating what is often a disparate, outdated set of legacy systems and protocols. "Enterprises can't afford to wait for critical connectivity," says Dave Ward, chief technology officer of Lumen Technologies.
Lumen can help: It simplifies decision-making, offering a holistic approach to identifying and installing a future-ready infrastructure that scales with the pace of digital innovation. Its Wavelength Solutions deliver dedicated optical links over dense wavelength division multiplexing networks, powering mission-critical applications.
What you need to know
Chief experience officers need to understand several key scoping questions before they decide which wavelength to pursue. Particularly with AI, demand can fluctuate quickly and significantly, depending on everything from seasonality to market trends. A network that can scale dynamically is a must-have.
Equally important is low latency. AI thrives on speed, and those 660 zetabytes of data that we'll soon be accessing will be in near-perpetual motion as mobile access meets edge computing in areas including autonomous vehicles, e-commerce platforms, and IoT devices. Scalable, significant bandwidth is necessary to meet that demand, while all those data transfers need to be done securely and robustly, protecting data integrity.
Lumen's industry-leading network uses low-latency routes, industry-competitive service level agreements, network redundancy, and a wide range of dynamic bandwidth options for maximum efficiency. Companies worldwide turn to Lumen to secure their fiber capacity, recognizing that robust network infrastructure is essential for businesses to succeed. That's why Vertical Systems Group ranked Lumen #1 in Wavelength Solutions in North America in 2024.
A buyer's checklist
If keeping pace with technology is essential for businesses today, then network speed and reliability are critical levers in powering its adoption. Too often, network deployments stall due to quoting delays, capacity constraints, or complex network rebuilds. The right partner can help you navigate — or even eliminate — these roadblocks.
Here's what to look for when choosing a provider that can keep your business moving in the right direction:
Making things easier
This checklist isn't short, but it is consequential if any of it goes wrong. That's why Lumen is the choice of many organizations, given its expansive fiber network and cutting-edge solutions. Lumen owns and operates the largest ultra‑low‑loss intercity fiber network in North America. With its modern optical infrastructure that's purpose-built for high-capacity connectivity, it supports advanced 400G services and beyond. Lumen's wavelengths network focuses on speed, scalability, and reliability, making it easier for customers to expand their networks and keep pace with fast-evolving digital demands.
Lumen offers support for organizations looking to take the leap and make it easier with its RapidRoutes℠. "With RapidRoutes℠, we're eliminating the friction — no more long quoting periods or engineering delays," says Ward. Lumen's fully digital on-demand networking can get you up and running in five minutes or less.
"We're giving customers a simple promise: get the capacity you need, exactly when you need it," says Ward. "With an industry-leading 20-day SLA for service delivery and up to 400G speeds on prioritized routes across Lumen's intercity fiber network, we're redefining what it means to connect with confidence and speed."
This post was created by Insider Studios with Lumen Technologies.
* Based on publicly available SLAs and service installation data for major U.S. wavelength providers and market share data from the July 2024 Atlantic-ACM North American Business Connectivity Survey. SLAs may vary by provider, location, and contract terms. 20-business-day service installation starts from the date order and order addendum are fully executed and received by Lumen.
The post A buyer's guide to choosing the right wavelength for your AI-ready network appeared first on Business Insider