Upgraded version of Bulgarian optical network switch

Bulgaria's optical network has been upgraded with next-generation Infinera technology, boosting per-channel capacity from 200 Gbps to 800 Gbps, with scalability up to 1.2 Tbps and advanced software-defined control.Overview of the UpgradeNeterra, a global connectivity provider, has invested €12 million to modernize Bulgaria's national backbone, deploying next-generation optical networking technology from Infinera, now part of Nokia . The upgrade focuses on Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM), which allows multiple optical signals to travel simultaneously over a single fiber pair, effectively transforming existing fiber routes into high-capacity digital corridors .Key Technical EnhancementsIncreased Transmission Capacity: The previous system supported up to 200 Gbps per wavelength channel. The upgraded platform now supports 800 Gbps per channel, with potential scaling to 1.2 Tbps, enabling large-scale enterprise connectivity, cloud traffic, and international data transit .ROADM Technology: The deployment includes Reconfigurable Optical Add-Drop Multiplexers (ROADM), allowing network paths to be adjusted via software rather than manual intervention. This reduces operational complexity, minimizes service disruption, and accelerates provisioning of new services .Software-Defined Optical Management: The upgrade introduces software-controlled network management, enabling dynamic reconfiguration, faster service delivery, and improved resilience .Impact on Network PerformanceThe modernization addresses capacity constraints in parts of the existing backbone, supporting growing traffic from enterprise customers, ISPs, and NetIX internet exchange members . Priority routes include Sofia–Ruse and Sofia–Plovdiv–Stara Zagora–Sliven–Kapitan Andreevo, with expansion planned to cover Varna and Bourgas, ensuring nationwide high-capacity coverage .Local Network Switch ManufacturersIn addition to backbone upgrades, Bulgaria hosts several network equipment providers offering advanced switches and optical modules. Companies like Data Optics Balkans, Smartcom, Evolink, and IP net provide Ethernet and Layer 2/3 switches, while Opticom Ltd. and Lancom supply optical communication systems and modules compatible with high-speed networks . These solutions complement the upgraded backbone by enabling efficient local and enterprise connectivity.ConclusionThe upgraded Bulgarian optical network leverages Infinera DWDM and ROADM technology to deliver terabit-scale capacity, software-defined control, and enhanced operational flexibility. This positions Bulgaria as a regional hub for high-capacity data transit, supporting cloud services, enterprise networks, and international connectivity while integrating with local switch and optical module providers for end-to-end network performance .