In a groundbreaking technological leap, Chinese entities in Beijing have unveiled the world’s most advanced and fastest internet network, boasting a remarkable data transmission rate of 1.2 terabits or 1,200 gigabits per second. China Mobile, in collaboration with Huawei Technologies and Cernet Corporation, introduced this cutting-edge network, capable of transferring data equivalent to 150 movies in just one second, as reported by the South China Morning Post (SCMP).
The newly introduced ‘backbone network’ spans over 3,000 kilometers of optical fiber cabling, connecting major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Wuhan, and Guangzhou. Remarkably, this network can transmit data at speeds that are ten times faster than existing major routes. Although the cables were activated in July, they were officially launched on Monday (Nov 13) after successfully passing all operational tests and proving their reliability.
Unprecedented Internet Speeds
This revolutionary network operates at a speed of 1,200 gigabits per second, a significant leap compared to the typical 100 gigabits per second of most major internet networks globally. Even the recently completed fifth-generation Internet2 in the United States operates at 400 gigabits per second. Huawei and China Mobile collaborated with Beijing’s Tsinghua University and Cernet to create this next-generation backbone network, funded by the Chinese government as part of the decade-long initiative for Future Internet Technology Infrastructure.
A Boost for China’s Technological Ambitions
President Xi Jinping has emphasized that the development of this backbone network positions China as a “cyber power” and accelerates the promotion of core internet technologies, according to a statement by Huawei as reported by CNN. Tsinghua University’s Xu Mingwei likened the new internet backbone to a superfast train track, replacing the previous ten regular tracks that carried the same amount of data. This upgrade not only increases speed but also leads to a more cost-effective and manageable system.
Not for Everyday Consumers
Despite its incredible capabilities, the world’s fastest internet is not intended for common consumers or applicable to home internet speeds. At a press conference held at Tsinghua University, Huawei Technologies’ vice-president Wang Lei emphasized that the network possesses the capability to transfer data equal to that of 150 high-definition films in just one second. It’s essential to note, however, that this remarkable achievement is primarily tailored for the needs of businesses, expediting information transfers, and enhancing national security. Its intended application is not directed towards individual households.
While the network’s impact is far-reaching, it’s important to note that this technological marvel focuses on enhancing internet infrastructure, marking a significant stride in China’s decade-long initiative for Future Internet Technology Infrastructure.
In conclusion, the unveiling of China’s groundbreaking internet network marks a significant milestone in the realm of technological innovation. With a data transmission rate of 1.2 terabits per second, this network, created through collaboration between China Mobile, Huawei Technologies, and Cernet Corporation, stands as the world’s fastest. Its potential to transfer data at speeds ten times faster than existing major routes reflects a monumental leap forward in connectivity.
While the network’s impressive capabilities, likened to a superfast train track by Tsinghua University’s Xu Mingwei, hold great promise for businesses, faster information transfers, and national security, it’s crucial to highlight that its application is not directed towards individual homes. Huawei Technologies’ vice-president Wang Lei underscored this point at a press conference, noting that the network’s prowess, equivalent to transferring 150 high-definition films in just one second, is tailored for broader infrastructural needs.
As this groundbreaking initiative aligns with China’s decade-long Future Internet Technology Infrastructure plan, it positions the nation as a cyber power, accelerating the development of core internet technologies, as stated by President Xi Jinping. While the network’s expansion to the rest of the country remains uncertain, its unveiling symbolizes a significant stride towards a more connected and technologically advanced future.