Network Evolution

Networks That Scale to Meet Tomorrow’s Connectivity Demands

The Network Evolution Vector focuses on creating future-proof networks by evolving and converging access technologies, from DOCSIS-based hybrid fiber coax (HFC) to FTTP, mobile, satellite, Wi-Fi, advanced optical systems and more.

Overview

Priorities

Use Cases

Powering the next generation of connectivity

Network evolution will enable the next era of connectivity with scalable, resilient, and programmable infrastructure. These intelligent, interoperable networks will help operators meet growing industry demand for symmetric capacity, lower latency and services that are context-aware and always available. Network evolution provides the foundation for innovative offerings that were previously impossible, including lag-free immersive gaming, automated connectivity and Internet of Things (IoT) applications that require unprecedented reliability. Networks of the future will meet evolving connectivity needs by:

Scaling for What’s Next

Building next-generation networks that will dynamically scale and evolve alongside increasing bandwidth demands and emerging technologies.

Advancing Infrastructure

Converging multiple access technologies to offer flexible, high-quality connectivity tailored to diverse needs and environments.

Redefining Network Intelligence

Automating networks to self-configure, self-optimize and self-report to deliver efficient, high-performing and resilient connectivity with minimal manual oversight.

Priorities Include

HFC evolution and DOCSIS MAC and PHY improvements

Advancing HFC and DOCSIS MAC/PHY technology to support both wired and mobile optionality and increase speeds, capacity, and efficiency.

Advanced Optics

Leveraging cutting-edge optical technologies to increase data capacity, achieve wavelength agility, improve power efficiency, reduce latency and extend signal transmission range.

Fiber to the Premises (FTTP) and PON evolution

Continuing to evolve all-fiber networks to increase capacity, improve interoperability and enhance service offerings.

Wi-Fi Evolution

Driving advancements in Wi-Fi to deliver higher speeds, lower latency, increased reliability and seamless user experiences, and enabling new innovations such as sensing.

Mobile evolution and optionality

Integrating mobile network advancements to support flexible, seamless connectivity, with a focus on leveraging HFC network assets and alternative protocols to enhance coverage.

Network Evolution in Action

Wi-Fi 7 field trial demonstrates better performance for next-gen applications

In a residential field trial conducted by CableLabs and Intel, Wi-Fi 7 delivered significant performance gains for high-demand applications like video conferencing, online gaming, AR/VR and smart home automation. The gains included enhanced throughput, higher data rates, improved reliability and improved uplink performance.

Smart home devices on a living room console with glowing Wi-Fi connection icons.

Aerial view of a rural farm with houses, grazing cows, and green fields.

FWA and PON bring high-speed broadband to rural communities

Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and PON networks support online learning and virtual health care services by enabling lower infrastructure costs, faster deployment and greater flexibility to provide last-mile technology to previously underserved rural communities.