There’s exciting news from a recent trial that shows just how essential advanced networks are for tapping into the full capabilities of AI and high-performance computing. The CSC – IT Centre for Science and Surf have successfully tested a robust, quantum-safe fibre-optic connection, exceeding 1.2 terabits per second over 3,500 kilometers, stretching from Amsterdam to Kajaani in Finland.
The partners in this trial, including communications tech leader Nokia, highlight the urgent need for dependable, high-speed connections as the volume of research data skyrockets, especially for training large AI models. This trial underscores the potential of ultra-fast, cross-border connectivity, paving the way for the Lumi-AI supercomputer and future AI factories. These systems need reliable and scalable infrastructure to handle the rapidly growing datasets and demanding workloads. Lumi, the flagship supercomputer operated by EuroHPC JU, boasts a remarkable processing power of 380 petaflops in its final configuration and stands out as one of the top platforms for AI globally.
This test proved that high-volume data transfers across European research networks are not just possible but ready for the future. The partners see unique opportunities for managing data transport and storage across long distances. These tests are a vital step toward enhancing infrastructure for data-intensive research.
Based in Finland, CSC develops digital systems for managing data, scientific computing, and education. Its mission is to help researchers, learners, and businesses navigate the world while supporting society’s digital transition and promoting sustainability. CSC operates as a non-profit, backed by the Finnish government and higher education institutions. On the other hand, Surf collaborates with Dutch educational and research sectors, focusing on ICT innovation to uplift education and research quality while emphasizing sustainability.
During the trial, networking tests spanned various routes, including an impressive 4,700 kilometers through Norway at a capacity of 1 Tbps, seen as especially promising for upcoming supercomputers and AI factories.
The test involved transferring both real and synthetic research data directly from disk to disk, moving from Surf’s Amsterdam facility to CSC’s Kajaani data center. It utilized five research and education networks: Surf (Netherlands), Nordunet (Nordic backbone), Sunet (Sweden), Sikt (Norway), and Funet (Finland).
Nokia’s IP/MPLS routing and quantum-safe optical networking technology powered the network service. The system effectively showcased Flexible Ethernet (FlexE) to manage large and continuous data flows. This optical transport technology proved capable of handling massive datasets produced by high-performance computing across long distances.
Mikhail Lenko, customer solutions architect at Nokia, expressed pride in the collaboration, emphasizing the scientific community’s innovation and the possibilities of teamwork. He highlighted the importance of the resilient, high-capacity infrastructure being developed to support the next generation of supercomputers and AI factories.
Jani Myyry, a senior network specialist at CSC, added that they’re designing research networks with future demands in mind. With the Lumi supercomputer already in Kajaani and the Lumi-AI supercomputer on the horizon, dependable and scalable connections across Europe are crucial. He noted that geographical distance won’t hinder data traffic.