From 10G/40G to 25G/100G: A Strategic Move for Data Center Networks

With the explosive growth of cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT), coupled with the high throughput supported by server and storage solutions, the bandwidth requirements of data centers need to continuously increase to meet the massive data flow demands. Undeniably, high bandwidth is driving data centers towards greater scalability and flexibility. Existing 10G/40G networks are no longer sufficient, and the upgrade to 25G/100G is emerging as a strategic move, pushing data center networks towards higher performance and flexibility.

Migrating from 10G to 25G Ethernet

Why can 25G Ethernet take over from 10G Ethernet? On one hand, although aggregating four 10GbE physical channels achieves 40G, these solutions are more expensive and consume more power compared to 25G. On the other hand, 25G solutions have advantages over 10G in enhancing computational and storage efficiency, providing higher bandwidth and faster connections. It can operate two 25G channels to achieve 50G or run four channels to achieve 100G.

When transitioning to the next-generation network, its capital and operational expenditures are relatively balanced. Moreover, 25GbE is backward compatible and supports 10G, allowing it to work with existing network devices when adding new servers. The advantages of easy migration, cost/performance balance, and real-time visibility of the network will drive the transition of the next generation of data to 25G to leverage its faster port speed and cost curve.

Advantages of 10/40G to 25/100G Upgrade

Reduced Fiber Cost

Fiber optics used for 10G/40G networks can continue to be used in 25G/100G networks, avoiding the need for rewiring and making network upgrades more convenient. Both 25G SFP28 optical modules and 10G SFP+ optical modules use LC connectors. Therefore, single-mode and multimode fiber optics used for 10G networks can continue to be used in 25G networks within the maximum transmission distance. Similarly, 40G QSFP+ optical modules and 100G QSFP28 optical modules support MPO interfaces or LC interfaces, and the transmission distance of fiber cables is essentially the same. Single-mode and multimode fiber cables used for 40G networks can continue to be used in 100G networks.

Improved Network Bandwidth

The 25G/100G solution can greatly increase network bandwidth. The bandwidth of data links between leaf-spine increases by 2.5 times, while the convergence ratio of upstream and downstream bandwidth remains unchanged, maintaining consistency with the user experience and the existing network.

Backward Compatibility

25G SFP28 optical modules and 10G SFP+ optical modules have the same packaging. The 25G port can use 10G optical modules, and the port rate adapts to 10G. Similarly, 40G QSFP+ optical modules and 100G QSFP28 optical modules have the same packaging. The 100G port can use 40G optical modules, and the port rate adapts to 40G. Therefore, the optical module compatibility of the 25G/100G solution is good, allowing equipment to be upgraded first during network upgrades, followed by a phased replacement of optical modules, ultimately achieving the overall upgrade of the network.

FS 25G/100G Optical Modules and High-Speed Cables Recommendations

FS has comprehensive 25G optical module and 100G optical module solutions to assist data centers in smoothly upgrading their optical networks. 10/25G dual-rate optical modules are also available as an economically efficient 25G/100G network upgrade solution with high flexibility, suitable for both current 10G networks and 25G networks. For network deployment, using 10/25G dual-rate optical modules can easily achieve network upgrades without replacing optical modules and cables, significantly reducing network upgrade costs. Here is a recommended list of FS 25G/100G optical modules and high-speed cables.