Your Feedback ptical networking may sound like some far-out technology, the effects of which won't be seen for years.
Optical networks transmit voice, data, and video traffic over fiber cables using light streams.
By delivering huge amounts of bandwidth and virtually eliminating network delays, optical networks promise to radically improve the performance, price, and flexibility of network services. Fundamental changes in the way people work together will result from quick service setup coupled with lower network delays and distance-independent pricing. Instead of buying and maintaining software and running it on PCs, companies will shift to inexpensive thin-client hardware and either run applications on their own central site servers or outsource the task to application service providers. Some companies already are charging ahead with plans to reengineer their businesses on the basis of these developments. Starting in April, Gullqvist plans to use high-bandwidth circuits from carriers with optical networks to roll out video applications in its branch offices.