wiredinUSA May 2013

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wiredInUSA - May 2013 23
Illinois Fiber Resources Group (iFiber - a
coalition of local government, university
and not-for-profit organizations) is
deploying Ciena Corporation’s
converged packet optical and packet
networking platforms throughout
its regional fiber optic network in
northwestern Illinois.
The deployment will provide Community
Anchor Institutions in previously
underserved locations with advanced
ethernet service delivery and a
cost-effective means to transport data
services at speeds of up to 100G and
beyond.
“With iFiber, we intend to bring economic
development and information
exchange to community anchors
and, ultimately, with the help of ISPs,
businesses and homes, at speeds not
possible with the existing infrastructure,”
said John L Lewis, chairman of the iFiber
board of directors.
“Ciena has been a key contributor to
this project from the onset, providing
design and consultation services, as well
as a full suite of 100G coherent optical
transport and packet networking
capabilities that allow us to meet the
needs of underserved cities, counties
and commercial entities throughout the
region,” he continued.
Chad Whalen, vice president and
general manager of Ciena’s North
America field operations, said: “iFiber
is a great example of government,
education and the private sector
coming together to bring broadband
connectivity and economic opportunity
to their local communities.”
Fiber optics in Illinois