Global users create more than 25 terabytes of data per second. Experts predict that the demand for data will increase by over 20% in 2025, driving a need for greater network infrastructure capacity. Preparing for 800G Ethernet technology is more important than ever.
What Is 800G Ethernet?
The 800G Ethernet specification is designed to provide an 800 Gigabit per second data transfer rate. This doubles the previous capabilities of 400GbE Ethernet networks. The development of 800GbE networks follows the IEEE 802.3df-2024 standard.
How 800G Works
The technology behind 800G is similar to today’s advanced 400G systems, but there are some additional components. In broad terms, 800G delivers eight lanes of 100 Gb/s data transfer using multimode optical fiber.
Network architects achieve this by combining two 400G Ethernet logic systems with a specialized Physical Coding Sublayer and an advanced Media Access Control layer. The MAC layer rests above existing PCS and FEC components in 400G Ethernet. The networks also require OSFP or QSFP-DD 800G transceivers and an 800G Ethernet switch.
This type of setup allows for a smoother transition to 800G. Instead of completely replacing network infrastructure, organizations can leverage existing equipment and build out their systems as demand increases.
Why Use 800G Ethernet Infrastructure?
The main reason to prepare for 800G Ethernet is to increase your organization’s data transfer capabilities. Being able to transmit eight channels of 100 Gbps allows for immense improvements in data processing, analytics, video streaming, machine learning, and countless other applications.
Increased Bandwidth With a Similar Footprint
The design of 800G Ethernet means increasing transmission speeds is possible without requiring much additional space for hardware. Not only does this reduce implementation costs, but it also keeps system maintenance operations relatively simple.
5G Network Adoption
Commercial, industrial, and consumer data usage has skyrocketed in recent years. As the telecom industry moves toward low-latency 5G mobile networks and 25G transfer speeds, this usage will only increase. These improvements are a good thing for enterprises, but they require robust infrastructure.
IoT Devices and Enterprise Networking
Countless B2B organizations use sensors, manufacturing automation, CNC equipment, and similar IoT devices in day-to-day operations. Many enterprises also rely on cloud-based platforms that support thousands of employees. With 800G Ethernet supporting 5G, companies can take advantage of low latency and faster communications for integrated operations and more reliable team collaboration.
Which Organizations and Industries Should Prepare for the 800G Ethernet Standard?
Making the leap from 400G to 800G Ethernet is especially important for data centers and organizations that use AI, ML, and automation technologies. SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS providers need high-speed networks to keep up with rising user demand. Similarly, enterprises with hundreds or thousands of employees using cloud applications and video conferencing should take steps to prepare for 800G.
How Can Your Organization Prepare for 800G Ethernet Technology?
Some parts of the 800G standard are already here, such as transceivers and high-performance multimode optical fiber. Additional 800G Ethernet testing is needed, but preparing for 800G is a good investment, positioning enterprises for seamless expansion.
At Equal Optics, we provide next-gen Ethernet cables for data centers, manufacturers, healthcare organizations, and many other enterprises. Pave the road to 800G Ethernet for your organization today.
