Since 2006, Maryland Broadband Cooperative (MdBC) has built and operated a middle-mile fiber network that powers connectivity for communities, institutions, and service providers. Its 2,600-mile network—with 33 points of presence across Maryland and Virginia—enables last-mile providers to deliver world-class internet services to millions, including those in the most rural areas.
Guided by its forward-looking strategy and commitment to the state’s digital readiness, MdBC knew that now was the time to upgrade its network to meet the future needs of its ISP members and the citizens of Maryland.
Middle-Mile Backbone: With predictions of exponential increases in bandwidth demand, MdBC turned to Ciena to modernize its infrastructure. By deploying Waveserver powered by WaveLogic 5 Extreme 800G coherent optics and the 6500 T-Series Packet-Optical Platform, MdBC can now deliver a full spectrum of services, from 1G to 400G client connectivity, with programmable bandwidth scaling up to 800G wavelengths across its middle-mile backbone. This leap in scalability and efficiency ensures MdBC can support its members with the reliable, high-capacity services required to stay competitive in a digital-first economy.
Cellular Backhaul: To provide 10G cell tower backhaul, MdBC implemented Ciena’s 8110 Coherent Aggregation Router and 5130 Routers. And with upcoming roll-outs of WaveLogic 5 Nano coherent pluggables using the 8112 platform, they can support enterprise business services ranging from 1G to 100G, and aggregation up to 400G. MdBC’s expansion plans will increase resilient ethernet service options with the 8114 platforms. Extending this capability across the network opens doors for more advanced business services and mobile expansion opportunities.
“MdBC and Ciena share a commitment to building for the future,” said Drew Van Dopp, President and CEO of MdBC. “Our future-ready network will help reduce barriers for our ISPs, attract new business investment, fuel telehealth and remote learning, empower innovation hubs, and bridge the digital divide for underserved and unserved communities.”
To streamline network management, MdBC relies on Ciena’s Navigator Network Control Suite, that provides a single-pane-of-glass view across optical, ethernet, and IP layers. In addition, with Ciena Managed Services, MdBC benefits from expert monitoring and operational support, giving its team the confidence and visibility needed to focus on growth rather than troubleshooting.
“By leveraging Ciena’s industry-leading optical, routing, switching, and network management solutions, MdBC can expand our network’s diversity, resilience, and capacity to meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s challenges,” Van Dopp added.
For more information on MdBC and its services, visit mdbc.us.