Networks

The demands on network capacity are always increasing. And we’re always exploring ways of expanding that capacity. Currently, we’re looking at:

• Developing and demonstrating new optical network technologies – right back to the fundamental physics
• Developing innovative radio access network (RAN) technologies, including Massive MIMO, small cell and open RAN (O-RAN) technologies
• Continuing to push the capabilities of our copper access network
• Exploring alternative technologies such as satellite and drone based broadband for remote areas

A future network needs future-first thinking; we have to build enablers into the current network that will make that future network possible. It’s as if we’re leaving tools for our developers to pick up further down the line. So we’re embedding enablers of emerging technology into the network. Things like cloud-native network architecture, AI and intelligent network management tools.

We strive to understand all aspects of our networks performance, from the fundamental network metrics (speed, latency, throughput, downtime, and so on – all the usual numbers on the dashboard) through to the true customer-level quality of experience (QoE).  This allows us to give the customer the best experience for their needs, every time.