How a new AWS optical network solution delivers unmatched scale and efficiency across its global infrastructure

This article describes AWS's custom-built Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) transponder technology for global network infrastructure.

• New AWS DWDM transponder delivers 73% more bandwidth with 35% less power consumption
• First cloud provider with custom DWDM technology for both metro and long-haul connections
• Long-haul version deployed in July 2025 after five-month development cycle
• 50% lower failure rate than previous third-party transponders
• Flexible data transmission in 100-gigabit increments for optimized performance
• Unified architecture across all data centers using same hardware and operating system
• Enhanced security through end-to-end encryption and complete hardware stack control
• Rapid global expansion planned with Europe deployment underway

AWS's custom DWDM transponder represents a shift from vendor solutions to purpose-built internal systems, delivering superior performance, reliability, security, and environmental efficiency across AWS's global infrastructure.