ITS has become the first UK provider to successfully trial the delivery of dedicated internet access services over 50G-PON in both lab conditions and a live business customer environment – a trial that marks a significant leap for the UK’s fibre market.
The pioneering test with Limitless Digital Group shows early demand for next-generation fibre speeds, and how early adoption of PON technology can meet real-time business demand for scalable, and sustainable connectivity.
ITS’ network and operations teams worked closely with product and commercial colleagues and strategic partners to understand how 50G-PON can address emerging needs across the market.
Initial results highlight 50G-PON’s potential to significantly increase fibre performance while reducing cost and environmental impact compared to traditional point-to-point builds.
Mike Goodwin, Chief Technology Officer said: “While the industry roadmap points to 2026 or 2027 for commercial rollout, our view is simple: business customers are ready now. It is one of ITS’s strategic objectives to stay at the forefront of pioneering technology such as this.
“50G-PON ticks all the boxes to provide great products, service and value to help businesses survive and thrive.”
During the trial the ITS team observed 50G-PON speeds of 41.8Gbps downstream and 19.2 Gbps upstream. This was while using combi-optics to deliver GPON and XGS-PON services, allowing ITS to deliver 50G-PON leased line services over existing networks without disruption to service.
The trial comes just weeks after the latest Broadband Forum ‘Plugfest’, where 50G-PON and 25GS-PON technologies were tested for interoperability at a global level for the first time.
ITS is building on that momentum by collaborating with vendors and standards bodies to accelerate real-world deployment across the UK.
Mike continued: “Access networks are no longer built the way they used to be. Whether it’s local authorities planning infrastructure, developers designing for digital, or mobile operators needing backhaul for 5G, the network must scale with demand. Third-generation PON like this is how we deliver that.”
