SKT is introducing a large-capacity wired network to prepare for 5G advancements and 6G traffic processing.

SK Telecom announced on the 10th that it will be the first in Korea to commercially deploy a 400 Gbps wired network on its 5G backbone. The new technology has been fully implemented on the Seongsu-Boramae backbone section, and further testing and monitoring will enable the network to be expanded to all backbone sections nationwide.

The large-capacity wired network currently used in the backbone transmits traffic in units of 100 Gbps, but the large-capacity wired network being introduced this time can process traffic in units of 400 Gbps.

SKT said, “In preparation for the increase in services requiring large amounts of communication data traffic, advancements in 5G, and commercialization of 6G, we have decided to introduce a 400 Gbps wired network ahead of network expansion,” and “With the introduction of this new technology, we expect to achieve ESG results such as reducing energy consumption for backbone connections, reducing equipment installation space, and reducing carbon emissions due to reduced line construction.”

Additionally, SKT reduced the number of wired networks connecting the backbone by introducing a 400 Gbps wired network. This is expected to increase network management efficiency and enable quicker response to failures and malfunctions.

SKT is also pursuing the advancement of an AI-based integrated inspection and monitoring automation system to manage wired network performance, including lines and equipment, which has become increasingly important as the backbone network evolves to accommodate large-scale capacity.

Lee Jong-hoon, Vice President and Head of Infrastructure Engineering at SKT, said, “By introducing an ultra-large-capacity backbone network, we can now prepare for the increased traffic following the commercialization of 5G, as well as the large-capacity traffic generated by future 5G advancements and 6G commercialization.” He added, “SKT will continue to advance its network to provide customers with the highest quality communication services.”