Proximus is starting the modernization of its optical network on a national scale. The project involves approximately 700 nodes in Belgium and is intended to significantly increase data traffic capacity.
According to Proximus, the modernization of the optical network, which includes approximately 700 nodes throughout Belgium, is necessary to meet the growing demand for connectivity. Following a tender process, Proximus chose the French supplier Ekinops. The goal is to create a modern infrastructure that can handle increasing data demand and support future digital applications such as cloud and artificial intelligence.
Backbone
Proximus’s current optical network is the backbone for the transport of voice, internet, and television throughout Belgium. It supports all technologies, from copper to fiber (FTTH) and 5G. The network can support up to 96 wavelengths per fiber, with speeds of up to 800 gigabits per second per channel. This enables more than 25 terabits per second per fiber pair.
The renewal will be carried out over a period of four years. Deployment work will mainly take place at night to ensure service continuity. Testing phases have already started in the laboratory and will continue in the field.
The new infrastructure offers significant benefits for the capacity, reliability, and overall efficiency of the network. It provides more flexibility to support data-intensive applications such as cloud, streaming, and artificial intelligence. Additionally, existing fiber can be used more efficiently because a larger volume of data can be transported per connection. Attention is also being given to the integration of quantum encryption. Energy efficiency was a final important selection criterion.
A network ready for the future
Proximus’s new infrastructure is designed to meet the ever-increasing demands of digital applications. The network will significantly increase data transport capacity while strengthening reliability and efficiency. This is essential for supporting the growing needs for streaming, cloud, and artificial intelligence.
The modernization of the optical network is an important step for Proximus to meet future capacity needs. The new network will support all services offered by Proximus and help address growing challenges in connectivity, resilience, and security. The first rollout is planned for the last quarter of 2026.
European anchoring
Sustainability played an important role in the selection of Ekinops. The new equipment must be energy-efficient and meet Proximus’s environmental ambitions. Additionally, the choice of a European supplier strengthens the European anchoring of critical connectivity infrastructure.
The new network will not only increase capacity but also contribute to stronger European independence in terms of digital infrastructure. The modernization aligns with Proximus’s strategic objectives to guarantee a powerful, scalable, and responsible infrastructure.
The new infrastructure will support the growth of digital applications and ensure more reliable and efficient connectivity. The rollout of the network, which will take place over four years, is essential to support digital services in Belgium.