Saudi Telecom Company (stc), the largest telecom operator in Saudi Arabia, is broadening its 5G network coverage to 75 cities and regions. By utilizing Juniper Networks’ 400G routers in its converged supercore network and key data centers, stc aims to significantly improve network capacity, performance, and scalability while reducing energy consumption. This move aligns with stc’s digital transformation goals, incorporating automation to streamline operations and enhance efficiency, ensuring a seamless user experience.
To support its 5G expansion, stc sought to increase the capacity of its core network and data centers, powering its business and operational systems for mobile, broadband, residential, and B2B services. The goal was to create a flexible, high-performing infrastructure that could grow with demand, while focusing on energy-efficient solutions. Juniper Networks’ 400G routing solution met stc’s requirements for optimal power and space, supporting the company’s sustainability objectives.
Stc’s core network upgrade uses Juniper’s PTX10008 routers, which provide a capacity of 115.2 Tbps in a compact 13-U footprint and are 800G-ready to meet future needs. This upgrade results in a 1,340% (14.4x) increase in 100G capacity and a boost of 864 ports in 400G capacity per rack, with a 43% reduction in power consumption per gigabit.
For data center modernization, stc employs Juniper’s MX10008 routers, delivering 76.8 Tbps of capacity in a 13 RU form factor. This modernization provides a 384-port increase in 400G capacity per site and reduces physical space requirements by 90%, along with an 87% decrease in power consumption compared to previous designs.
Bader Allhieb, stc’s Infrastructure VP, emphasized that this expansion will bring transformative 5G services to millions more people and businesses in Saudi Arabia. He highlighted the benefits of Juniper’s routers in supporting network scalability, reducing carbon footprint, and lowering operational costs.
Yarob Sakhnini, Sales VP META at Juniper Networks, noted that the expanded 5G network is crucial for Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation as part of Vision 2030, helping drive enterprise growth across the country.
stc, 5G Expansion, Juniper Networks
