CenturyLink has upgraded its metro networking capability with packet optical technology from Ciena, in order to target business customers with Gigabit Ethernet access services up to 100G.

CenturyLink is using Ciena’s 6500 Packet-Optical Platform to support its in-region and national metro networks; the vendor said CenturyLink has installed its technology in 50 metropolitan U.S. markets, and also in a few international cities.

The upgrade allows CenturyLink to offer a 1GE, 10GE, 100GE and equivalent wavelengths to businesses.

Ciena’s 6500 converges Ethernet, TDM, and WDM capabilities into one platform to support cost-effective delivery of emerging and existing services. from the access edge to the backbone core.