Skip to main content

Executive Summary: Building a SAFER Access Network

In this Executive Summary, AFL's Josh Simer explains challenges and opportunities in network operations today and discussed ways to install and maintain a SAFE fiber network.

Download PDF

The increase in the number of connected devices serving a wider range of applications, coupled with the advancements in network technology over the past decade, has driven demand for improved network performance, scalability, and reach. Building or upgrading a high-performing access network is expensive and time-consuming, so the network needs to last for a long time.

Designing the network to be SAFE—Sustainable, Accessible, Flexible and Expandable—allows network operators to maximize their return on investment now and well into the future. AFL, a manufacturer, designer, engineer, installer, and maintainer of fiber optic networks, provides products and solutions that network operators can put into practice to achieve SAFE networks.

In this Executive Summary, based on a webinar of the same title, AFL's Josh Simer explains challenges and opportunities in network operations today and discussed ways to install and maintain a SAFE fiber network.

Key takeaways:

  • Network performance demands have changed with the evolution of digital technology.
  • Changing market trends create both business opportunities and challenges for network operators.
  • The SAFER™ access network addresses industry challenges.

About the Author

Josh Simer is AFL’s market strategy & innovation manager for service providers and multiple system operators (MSOs). He has been in the optical fiber and ICT industries for 15 years, prior to which he was a US Army Infantry Officer. Simer has and continues to serve in a variety of roles, including product, solution, and program management and has worked with a full range of customers, including large to small service providers, MSOs, utilities, co-ops, enterprises, and data center operators. Simer can be reached at josh.simer@aflglobal.com.

Profile Photo of Josh Simer