This is also recognized by SWAN, a company that invests millions of euros in the development of fiber optic internet in the regions. In 2022, SWAN completed its key investment in technology, building its own backbone fiber network throughout Slovakia, which gives the company a significant competitive advantage. We spoke to SWAN’s CTO, Juraj Lechner, to discuss what this investment means for the company and Slovakia.
What does the backbone network project mean for SWAN?
Throughout the past year, we focused on improving our services and invested in technology and infrastructure. We successfully built our own backbone network using the most advanced DWDM technology, providing reliable infrastructure, stable connections with high transmission speeds, and availability. The construction of the DWDM network was an exceptional project in terms of its scope, complexity, internal resources, and the set deadlines for successful project completion. The network’s capacities currently range from 10 to 100 Gbps, with configuration changes up to 200 Gbps, and hardware upgrades enabling speeds exceeding 200 Gbps if needed. This project significantly advances us technologically and opens up new opportunities in the telecommunications market.
How did you achieve this complex project?
Alongside several ongoing consolidation milestones, the implementation of the new C5 voice softswitch and services was one of the significant strategic projects after an extensive RFI/RFP process with multiple potential suppliers and selecting the most technically suitable partner. The project’s extent, complexity, and high demands rank it among the most challenging projects of the year. The production C5 hardware is located in two highly available TIER3 data centers. After various phases of implementation and integration, testing of technology features and capabilities, operation began at the end of last year.
What is the main goal of the backbone network project?
The goal of implementing the new C5 technology is to bring cutting-edge technology and advanced features to our customers all over Slovakia. It represents another key technological consolidation steps that our voice team is actively working on. In 2023, the project will continue with the gradual migration of both larger and smaller customers to the new modern technology and services.
What are the challenges in operating IT infrastructure in Slovakia?
Several factors, primarily high electricity prices, have had a negative impact on the telecommunications market. We have been going through a challenging period in terms of operating cost growth. In addition to rising energy prices, we have also faced an increase in telecommunications equipment costs.
What are the other key projects in IT infrastructure development?
In many areas, we continue to improve our products, services, and telecommunications infrastructure. Successful projects included numerous customer projects across all segments, as well as internal projects. These include the migration of wireless 26GHz technology, the development of FTTH to households, and software upgrades for IP infrastructure. Thanks to our NOC and technical support for the residential segment, we have been able to quickly and effectively respond to customer issues in the required time. Our TIER 3 data center - one of the most efficient in Slovakia, has been operational without interruptions since 2011.
Juraj Lechner, Director of Technical Division, Swan
Follow us