How digital twins will transform the networks of the future

Telecommunications networks are the lifeline of modern connectivity, keeping the world running smoothly and efficiently. But as demands on these systems grow, so do the cracks in traditional methods of managing them. From the rise of 6G to the promise of IoT and satellite communications, the telecoms industry is facing a critical moment. These technologies demand more than just incremental updates; they call for bold, innovative solutions that can keep up with the pace of change.

What’s pushing networks to their limit?

The telecoms world is no stranger to complexity, but the current challenges are pushing its boundaries. Delivering low latency and high reliability isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must for consumers and business alike. From supporting remote surgeries and patient monitoring in healthcare, to powering immersive experiences and live-streaming in entertainment, the demands on telecommunications networks continue to grow - and the future isn’t slowing down. Innovations like truly smart cities and fully autonomous vehicles are on the horizon, and they’ll demand a level of performance that current systems aren’t ready to handle.

Beyond these technical pressures, there’s the reality of managing network demand. Usage doesn’t stay static. Networks must adapt dynamically to traffic patterns, balancing the heavy loads of peak times with the quiet lulls. Doing so without wasting energy or resources is easier said than done. And then there’s the environmental angle: telecom operations already account for around 1% of the world’s energy consumption, a figure that could grow without smarter, more efficient solutions.

Photonic networks – the foundation

Here’s where photonic networks come in. These systems use light to transmit data, bypassing the inefficiencies of traditional networks that require frequent optical-to-electrical conversions. By maintaining data in its optical form throughout transmission, photonic networks achieve exceptional speeds, drastically reduced latency, and enhanced energy efficiency.

Photonic networks also bring stability and scalability to the table, making them ideal for the complex demands of modern telecommunications. They enable networks to process huge volumes of data in real time, paving the way for seamless connectivity across the board. For operators, this means they can rely on systems that are not only faster but also more efficient and better equipped to handle the unpredictable nature of network demand.

These networks will also enable more sustainable telecom operations. In streamlining data transmission and reducing energy use, photonic systems align perfectly with the drive for greener solutions. It’s a win-win: better performance with a lighter environmental footprint.

Network Digital Twins – the blueprint

If photonic networks are the foundation, Network Digital Twins (NDTs) are the blueprint for telecom’s future. Think of NDTs as virtual copies of physical networks, built to reflect every nuance of the real thing. They take the guesswork out of network management, offering operators a window into their systems that’s as clear as it is actionable.

What sets NDTs apart is their ability to predict. By using advanced data models, they can simulate what’s likely to happen next. Will a traffic surge overload a particular node? Is a key piece of equipment about to fail? NDTs don’t just raise the alarm—they let operators fix issues before they even occur. It’s a shift from reactive problem-solving to proactive management.

Dynamic optimisation is another game-changer. With NDTs, operators can fine-tune bandwidth allocation, energy consumption, and maintenance schedules in real time. During a busy period, for example, NDTs can reroute traffic to avoid bottlenecks, ensuring that users experience seamless service. In quieter moments, they can reduce power use, cutting costs and environmental impact without compromising performance.

This isn’t just about making things work better. It’s about creating networks that are agile, resilient, and ready to handle the demands of tomorrow. NDTs provide the tools operators need to stay ahead of the curve, delivering a level of control and insight that transforms how networks are run.

The road ahead for telecoms

The integration of photonic networks and Network Digital Twins marks a turning point for telecommunications. Together, these technologies offer solutions to the industry’s most pressing challenges, from managing rising data demand to meeting sustainability goals. But their potential doesn’t stop there. As the telecom industry prepares for 6G and beyond, these innovations will play a central role in shaping what comes next.

Looking further afield, NDTs open up opportunities for collaboration across industries. Imagine a city’s traffic management system working in tandem with an NDT-powered telecom network. The result? Smoother, smarter urban operations that benefit everyone. The possibilities are vast, and we’re only beginning to scratch the surface.

What’s clear is that the old ways of managing networks are no longer enough. Telecom operators need tools that are as dynamic and forward-thinking as the technologies they support. Photonic networks and NDTs deliver on that promise, offering the speed, reliability, and efficiency that the industry needs to thrive. In a world where connectivity is king, they’re not just optional extras—they’re the future.

Masahisa Kawashima is currently leading NTT's R&D of Innovative Optical and Wireless Network (IOWN) as the IOWN Technology Director. He is also serving as the Chair of the Technology Working Group at IOWN Global Forum. He has been working as a bridge between technologies and businesses since he joined NTT in 1994. His expertise includes high-speed networking, SDN, cloud/edge computing, AI, and data management. Nowadays, he is exploring innovative ways of making products/services cloud-native levering the evolution of optical communication and optoelectronics integration technologies.