Optical networking is shifting fast in 2026. Get up to speed on 800G/1.6T, CPO, open line systems and what it means for your infrastructure.

The optical landscape can be a rapid changing environment, and keeping pace can be an intimidating journey. Let us unwind this evolving puzzle for you.

Coherent pluggable optics are revolutionizing networks by merging optical and IP layers, boosting capacity and efficiency while lowering costs. Interoperable modules, open line systems and high-power optics are key drivers. This shift enables significant savings and scalability for network operators, with the industry moving toward 800G and ultra-long-haul solutions. This technology is a major advancement in networking.

The release of 100G ZR coherent QSFP28 transceivers from Nokia, Cisco and others promises to accelerate the already rapid shift from traditional core network designs to optical and packet converged architectures.