Building the network of tomorrow: Our strategic integration
Published by Vivek Gaur on November 19, 2024
I’m pleased to share that you can now read paper two in our new IDC Spotlight series based on the integration. Titled ‘Bringing Networks Together’, the paper offers an in-depth look at the integration of Colt and Lumen EMEA’s network infrastructure.
As well as hearing about how we are progressing with the integration from IDC analysts Len Padilla, Bruno Teyton and Chris Barnard, you can learn about the key trends impacting digital infrastructure, such as the rapid growth of the global datasphere due to factors including ongoing digital transformation efforts and the growing enterprise adoption of AI and machine learning.
In this blog I wanted to share our view on bringing the networks together, highlighting how it marks a major advancement in our commitment to delivering a network that not only meets current customer needs but is also prepared for future challenges.
Background
The acquisition of Lumen EMEA involves integrating 77,752 route kms of long distance network connecting 125 cities in 34 EMEA countries, 11,000 route kms of metropolitan network in 24 countries, 12 cable landing stations and 10 subsea cable systems. IDC stated that the integration is ‘set to redefine the landscape of network coverage across EMEA and beyond’.
We have sponsored IDC to write three Spotlight papers based on the integration to give an unbiased view from a respected third party on how we are progressing. Whilst paper one looked at bringing people together, paper two focuses on bringing the networks together. The final paper in the series will centre around the integration our product and solution portfolios.
Strategic advantages for enhanced customer experience
Combining our network with Lumen EMEA’s offers unparalleled advantages for our customers. By combining our metropolitan networks with Lumen’s long-distance capabilities, we can provide robust, comprehensive network solutions across multiple sectors. This synergy enables us to deliver an exceptional customer experience through improved connectivity options and service delivery.
A key highlight of the integration is the inclusion of Lumen EMEA’s subsea cable systems, which offer high-speed transatlantic connectivity. These systems enhance our network resilience, allowing us to efficiently manage and scale traffic between the US and EMEA regions. This expanded capability also enables us to offer competitive pricing for transatlantic services, benefiting our customers with faster and more reliable connections.
Our commitment to sustainability and innovation
By incorporating Colt’s established sustainability framework into Lumen’s network operations, we are achieving significant environmental benefits. Our use of SDN technology enhances network efficiency and reduces energy consumption. As part of our Science-Based Targets initiative, we aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045, with interim milestones set for 2030.
Our focus on sustainability extends to our customers, providing them with tools to calculate their greenhouse gas emissions accurately and meet regulatory requirements. This integration not only strengthens our environmental commitment but also supports our customers in achieving their sustainability goals.
Ensuring a seamless transition and superior customer experience
While the integration presents numerous opportunities, we are committed to ensuring a seamless transition. Our focus is on providing uninterrupted service and minimal disruption to our customers, ensuring they continue to receive the high-quality service they’ve come to expect from us.
The new hardware and vendor landscape introduced by the acquisition requires careful management. We are investing in training our technical teams and streamlining operations to maintain the quality and reliability of our network. Our pioneering co-management of the Tier-1 Autonomous System AS3356 with Lumen offers enhanced flexibility for our customers, requiring close coordination between the two entities. We are focused on aligning technical standards and operational procedures to ensure a superior network experience.
We’re now one of the largest pure-B2B digital infrastructure players globally. By leveraging our combined strengths and strategic assets, we are building a future-ready network. The acquisition has not only expanded our network reach but also reinforces our commitment to sustainability and innovation, paving the way for a future where digital communications are powerful, reliable, and environmentally responsible.
Explore the full paper ‘Bringing Networks Together’ for a more detailed look at how the integration strengthens our position as a leader in digital infrastructure, ensuring our customers are equipped to thrive.
By Vivek Gaur, VP Engineering, Colt
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