5G networks can be built using existing wired networks

KT announced that it has developed a '100G-PON' transmission solution capable of transmitting data at speeds of up to 100Gbps over existing optical internet lines.

The '100G-PON' transmission technology developed by KT applies 10 wavelengths capable of transmitting 10 gigabytes per second within a single line to transmit at a maximum speed of 100 Gbps. Since it utilizes existing optical cables without the need to build 10 lines of 10 Gbps transmission for 100 Gbps speed, it reduces construction time and costs.

With the application of this technology, it will be possible to stably provide '10 Giga Internet,' which is 10 times faster than the 'Giga Internet' currently in commercial service, through existing infrastructure. In particular, it is evaluated as a technology that can accelerate the realization of the 5G era by enabling the provision of 'Wireless 5G Fronthaul,' which allows for the construction of 5G networks using existing wired networks.

With the completion of '100G-PON' technology development, KT plans to accelerate the commercialization of its '10 Gigabit Internet' service. By using the '10 Gigabit Internet' service, high-quality services requiring large bandwidth, such as ultra-realistic UHD video services, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and next-generation Wi-Fi, can be reliably provided to customers.

Meanwhile, KT conducted a pilot test of the "10 Gigabit Internet" for the first time in Korea in September 2016. Since then, it has continued to verify the technical stability and reliability by building 10G internet infrastructure and expanding in-home pilot services in parts of Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Pyeongchang.

Jeon Hong-beom, Head of the Infrastructure Research Institute at KT Convergence Technology Institute, said, “Through the 100-gigabit transmission solution developed by KT, we are now able to provide 10-gigabit internet more stably and efficiently,” adding, “We will continue to research and develop related technologies to provide next-generation communication services.”