Aqua CommsAqua Comms has successfully completed a proof of concept of Ciena’s® WaveLogic Encryption solution, demonstrating the ability to safeguard all data at the optical layer on its high-capacity America-Europe Connect (AEConnect) transatlantic cable system. Providing secure, flexible and reliable connectivity linking New York to London via Dublin and beyond to greater Europe, AEConnect is designed to meet the explosive growth in bandwidth demand from carriers, global data centers, cloud-based networks, financial services companies and content providers.

The live, 100G wire-speed encryption proof of concept was witnessed by X-SES Consultants, an advisor to Aqua Comms who ensured that all requirements were satisfied during the test. The WaveLogic Encryption solution is Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS)-certified, meaning that Aqua Comms can now protect in-flight data over great transoceanic distances while staying in accordance with government-mandated regulations. Wavelogic Encryption also leverages Ciena’s MyCryptoTool, a management interface that allows end-users to set up and remotely manage their encrypted services and security safeguards while eliminating the need for costly and time-consuming site visits.

“By assessing Ciena’s Wavelogic Encryption solution to safeguard traffic across the Atlantic we proved the capabilities of our infrastructure,” commented Aqua Comms Chief Operating Officer Greg Varisco, following the announcement. “As a result, our web-scale provider, enterprise, and government customers can rely on the AEConnect subsea system for high-capacity and reliability, international connectivity and the highest levels of security.”

Aqua Comms’s proof of concept announcement is the latest development in the company’s ongoing partnership with Ciena. Prior to testing WaveLogic Encryption, Aqua Comms expanded its network by implementing Ciena’s 6500 Packet-Optical Platform—which is powered by WaveLogic 3 Extreme coherent optics—and its GeoMesh solution.

“Aqua Comms is being very proactive with its development of the AEConnect fiber optic cable system,” remarked Ed McCormack, Vice President and General Manager of Submarine Systems at Ciena. “This high-capacity link is already optimized for coherent technology and designed with future technologies, such as Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Functions Virtualization (NFV), in mind. With encryption capabilities, AEConnect can combine cost-effective, high-capacity connectivity with security – making it one of the most compelling global links.”

For more information about Aqua Comms and AEConnect, click here.