Protecting digital infrastructure

February 26, 2025

The security of fibre optic networks is not just about protecting data; it's about safeguarding the very fabric of our society.

Imagine a world where the backbone of our digital infrastructure is under constant threat. In this world, the security of fibre optic networks becomes paramount. These networks, which form the foundation of our internet, telecommunications, and critical infrastructure, are the silent sentinels of our connected lives.

Fibre optic cables, with their ability to transmit at the speed of light, are the preferred choice for modern communication systems. They are less susceptible to electromagnetic interference and can carry vast amounts of data over long distances with minimal loss. However, their very nature makes them a target for malicious actors.

In the realm of fibre security, the stakes are high. Hackers and cybercriminals are constantly evolving, seeking new ways to exploit vulnerabilities. The security of fibre optic networks is not just about protecting data; it’s about safeguarding the very fabric of our society. From power grids to water systems, transportation networks to financial institutions, the integrity of these networks is critical.

In defence & government where downtime isn’t an option, Fibre to the Desk (FTTD) has become the norm. This is the practice of using fibre-optic cables to connect computer workstations to the company network instead of copper cables. Although installation costs are slightly higher than copper for some applications, the advantages of security and futureproofing easily outweigh the extra expense.

Fibre cable systems can carry an almost unlimited amount of data at high speed. Unlike copper cables that need upgrading for higher speeds or regular maintenance, fibre cables can keep pace with increasing network demands, which makes them perfect for future-proof applications.

Another consideration is to our environment. Fibre, using light instead of electricity, consumes less energy for transmission and requires less active cooling or amplification. Over time, this efficiency reduces operational costs for providers and contributes to a greener, more sustainable infrastructure—a win for both wallets and the planet.

Applications where FTTD is an ideal choice include:

High-security networks like defence installations, financial, healthcare and other critical applications
Virtual networks using thin clients
Local area networks with extended distances to workstations
Locations where the power for copper Ethernet extenders is limited or unavailable
Environments with high levels of electromagnetic interference, such as a factory
Businesses where dynamic bandwidth or very bursty traffic are common
Operations moving large amounts of high-speed data

With more than four million units deployed in virtually every major worldwide government and defence agency, Allied Telesis certified FTTD solutions are often the de-facto standard for end point connectivity. However, the range of products does not end there. For over 20 years, Allied Telesis has developed a range of enterprise class switches, known as x-Series. This range of products features advanced layer 3 capabilities, Industry standard CLI management, strong security protocols such as MACSEC, and are known throughout the industry for their reliability. When coupled with the extensive range of Network Interface Cards for desktop & thin clients and the multitude of flexible managed and unmanaged media converters, Allied Telesis is the go-to for FTTD core to edge solutions.

In a modern world of state-sponsored hacking. Fibre’s security edge isn’t just theoretical. In 2013, revelations about widespread surveillance programs highlighted how copper-based telecom networks were exploited. Fibre’s resistance to passive interception makes it a harder target, forcing attackers to take riskier, more detectable approaches.

Further strengthening this message is AFM, otherwise known as Active Fibre Monitoring. An innovative technology pioneered by Allied Telesis, our patented Active Fibre Monitoring (AFM) provides specialised data protection for optical links. You can enjoy non-stop, automated monitoring of all your optical fibre with no need for expensive third-party equipment creating new single points of failure.

AFM works by detecting fluctuations in the amount of light received on a fibre link. When an intrusion is attempted, the light level changes, as some of the light is lost to the eavesdropper’s fibre tapping tools; AFM detects this intrusion and raises the alarm. The link can then either be shut down automatically, or an operator can be alerted to manually intervene.

The shift to fibre isn’t just about keeping up with technology—it’s about staying ahead of those who’d exploit it. In the battle for secure communications, fibre stands tall.

Allied Telesis is excited to be exhibiting on stand 141 at DPRTE 2025.