Global connectivity provider Neterra is upgrading its Bulgarian backbone network. With an investment of €12 million and the use of technology from Infinera, part of Nokia, Neterra aims to increase the capacity and efficiency of its data transmission infrastructure.
The project is intended to meet growing data demand from regional enterprises and support reliable international data transit across Bulgaria.
Neterra’s Bulgarian network uses DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) technology, which allows multiple "light channels" (lambdas) to transmit simultaneously over a single pair of fibre optic strands.
The current system supports up to 200 Gigabits per channel; the upgraded network will support 800 Gigabits per channel, with the potential to reach 1.2 Terabits. This effectively increases the data-carrying capacity of the fibre optic network.
The new network also provides increased flexibility. Using ROADM devices (intelligent signal management cards), Neterra can configure new services via software, without physical adjustments along the route. This approach reduces operational complexity and the potential for errors.
The first phase of the project covers key routes in Western and Southern Bulgaria, including Sofia – Ruse and Sofia – Plovdiv – Stara Zagora – Sliven – Kapitan Andreevo, with expected full operation within 3–4 months.
Subsequent phases will extend to Varna and Bourgas, achieving broader national coverage. The installation will be carried out by Infinera partners with support from Neterra’s technical team to ensure a coordinated implementation and migration of services.
