A global survey of 241 communications service provider (CSP) professionals by Heavy Reading in March 2025 reveals strong interest in coherent routing and 800G adoption. Most CSPs plan to deploy coherent pluggables in routers and DWDM systems, with routers the preferred choice. Respondents cited operational simplicity and efficiency as the top driver, while plug-to-router compatibility is the main priority. More than 50% view flex grid and open line systems as key modernization enablers. Near-term demand for 800G technology is high, with 76% planning to deploy coherent pluggables and 70% planning to deploy 800G router ports within three years. Survey results also show that 38% favor an optical controller, 35% prefer hierarchical controller interfaces, and 21% rely on IP controllers for managing pluggables.
