Understanding IP Address Classes for Dark Fiber Networks
Every device connected to a network needs an IP address to communicate. Think of it as a digital mailing address that helps information reach the right place. Meanwhile, dark fiber networks are unused fiber optic cables that companies lease to build their own private networks. As a result, understanding IP address classes helps organize data flow and keeps all devices connected properly. Furthermore, recent data from IP2Location’s 2024 report shows big changes in IP address distribution across 249 countries during 2023. Notably, Australia moved up to 10th place, while Singapore climbed to 24th, and Seychelles jumped 25 spots to reach 99th place. Thus, these changes show that more companies around the world are building network infrastructure and, consequently, need proper IP address classes to manage their growing dark fiber systems. What are the 5 classes of IP addresses? The 5 classes of IP addresses are Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, and Class E. Specifically, these IP address classes split the available IPv4 address space into different groups based on their size and what they’re used for. Initially, network engineers created this system to help companies organize addresses based on what they need. Furthermore, IP address classes serve different networking needs and have their own address range. Primarily, Class A, B, and C handle regular network operations. Meanwhile, Class D takes care of special multicasting functions. In contrast, Class E stays reserved for experimental work. Finally, the first few bits of an IP address tell you which class it belongs to. Class A networks Class A addresses start with numbers from 1 to 126 in the first section. These networks work for very large companies because they can handle millions of connected devices. The first 8 bits identify the network, and the remaining 24 bits identify individual devices in that network. A typical Class A address looks like 10.x.x.x, where “x” can be any number from 0 to 255. Big internet service providers and large corporations use these addresses for their operations. Only 128 Class A networks exist worldwide, which makes them rare and valuable for managing large dark fiber infrastructure. Class B networks Class B addresses go from 128.0.0.0 to 191.255.255.255. These networks fit well for medium-sized companies like universities, regional offices, or mid-sized businesses. The first 16 bits identify the network, and the last 16 bits identify individual devices. Companies with thousands of devices find Class B networks practical. They balance the number of available networks with how many devices each network can support. About 16,384 Class B networks are available around the world, giving growing businesses plenty of options. Class C networks In IP address classes, Class C addresses range from 192.0.0.0 to 223.255.255.255. These addresses are commonly used by small businesses and local networks. In this IP address class, the first 24 bits are used for the network, while the remaining 8 bits are used for device addresses. Each Class C network can support up to 254 devices. This makes it a good choice for small offices or branch locations. There are about 2 million Class C networks available, giving small companies many options without needing complex or expensive network setups. Class D networks Class D addresses range from 224.0.0.0 to 239.255.255.255. These addresses handle multicast traffic, which means one sender can send data to multiple receivers at the same time. Video conferencing platforms and streaming services use this class often for smooth content delivery. Regular networks don’t assign Class D addresses to individual devices. Applications and services use them for group communication instead. This makes them useful for sending content across dark fiber networks to many endpoints at once, which saves bandwidth and improves efficiency. Class E networks Class E addresses go from 240.0.0.0 to 255.255.255.255. Researchers and developers keep these addresses for experimental work and future applications. Regular networks can’t use these addresses for normal operations. The Internet Engineering Task Force holds these addresses for testing new protocols and networking technologies. While they exist in the IP address classes framework, they can’t be used on the public internet. This gives future innovations dedicated resources for testing and development. Conclusion Understanding IP address classes helps you build networks that fit your company’s needs. Class A, B, and C handle regular network operations for different company sizes. Class D manages multicast traffic and Class E stays reserved for experimental use. When you understand these classifications, you can design reliable dark fiber networks that grow with your business and support increasing connectivity needs across your infrastructure. Picking the right IP address classes makes sure your network performs well and can grow when you need it to. However, implementing these configurations properly requires reliable dark fiber infrastructure as the foundation for your network. ARNet provides professional dark fiber solutions that support proper IP address implementation and network design. Their infrastructure gives your business the bandwidth and flexibility needed for modern network demands. With strong expertise in dark fiber, ARNet’s experienced team helps companies make smart infrastructure decisions. Choosing ARNet means working with a provider who delivers reliable, high-capacity fiber connections built for growth. Our network infrastructure supports IP address classes and setup your company needs, from small branch offices to company-wide deployments. ARNet’s technical knowledge helps businesses build networks that work great today and scale easily for tomorrow’s needs. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet
Undersea Cables Explained: What They Are and Why They Matter
Cables under the ocean support most of the internet we use every day. Satellites and wireless networks may seem important, but undersea cables carry most of the world’s internet traffic and connect countries. These cables sit on the ocean floor and allow things like video calls, online payments, cloud services, and social media to work. As people and businesses connect more online, these cables matter even more. Big tech companies are spending a lot of money to build new undersea cables. At the same time, people are more worried about keeping them safe and working well. Because they can send large amounts of data very fast, these cables are essential to the global digital world. What are undersea cables? Undersea cables are also called underwater cables. They are fiber optic cables placed on the seabed. These cables connect countries and areas across the sea. They send data using light. This allows information to move very fast and in very large amounts. New cables can carry huge amounts of data every second. They can send data across very long distances. According to BBC Future, each cable is about 2 centimeters thick. This is similar to a garden hose. Each cable runs for thousands of miles under the sea. This cable system is very large. Recorded Future reports that, as of April 2025, about 597 underwater cables are working or being built around the world. These cables connect continents, companies, and homes. At the same time, the International Telecommunication Union said that companies installed almost 200,000 kilometers of new cables in 2024 alone. Altogether, these cables are about 1.4 million kilometers long. This is enough to go around the Earth more than 35 times, based on data from Subsea Cables. The expanding scale of infrastructure This enormous network drives an industry experiencing rapid growth due to rising global data demand. According to Precedence Research, the global submarine cable system market was valued at USD 22.96 billion in 2025 and may reach USD 54.81 billion by 2034, expanding at a compound annual growth rate of 10.15%. These cables carry about 99% of all intercontinental internet traffic, as reported by the Atlantic Council, while satellites handle less than 5% and operate at much lower speeds. However, this expansion comes with physical challenges. The International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC) reports an average of 199 undersea cable faults each year worldwide. Fishing and anchoring cause around 86% of these disruptions. Despite a 50% increase in cable route distance since 2013, the industry has kept fault rates stable through better protective measures, according to Submarine Networks. Why undersea cables matter for global connectivity Undersea cables are long cables under the ocean that carry the internet around the world. They are very important for daily life and for the world economy. These cables help people, businesses, and countries stay connected. Building resilient digital infrastructure The world uses undersea cables more than before. Because of this, strong networks are needed. But many networks do not have backup lines or fast repair teams. When a cable breaks, places without backups can lose internet for a long time. Also, political problems and slow repairs can make this worse. This can harm communication and business. For this reason, undersea cable networks must be ready. At the same time, more people use digital services every year. So, staying online during problems is very important. To reduce risk, companies should use backup systems. For example, more than one route helps keep the network working. In Southeast Asia, a good internet is important for business. Without it, companies can fall behind. ARNet is a top dark fiber provider. It runs an all-fiber network built for AI. The network covers over 10,000 kilometers. It reaches Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. By using sea and land cables, ARNet connects 60 data centers. Because of this, it offers clear SLAs and fast setup with one license. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet
Why Choose Optical Cable? 5 Key Advantages Over Traditional Copper
Optical cable technology is now commonly used in dark fiber networks. It replaces copper cables in systems that need more control and their own network space. As data use continues to grow, dark fiber lets organizations own or rent unused fiber lines. This makes it easier to build networks that can be turned on and expanded when needed. This wider use shows why dark fiber is seen as a long-term network choice, not just a basic connection. With faster speeds, fewer signal problems, and easy expansion, optical cable technology supports new systems and future growth. You can understand these benefits more easily by looking at how real networks use dark fiber. What is an optical cable used for? An optical cable is the main line used in dark fiber networks. In general, it lets companies use their own fiber lines without using the provider’s equipment. At the same time, in telecom networks, dark fiber helps send data over long distances. Because of this, companies can turn the network on when needed and also add more capacity as traffic grows. In many cases, in data centers and business networks, dark fiber connects buildings and systems with direct and fast links. As a result, this helps companies control their network speed, data use, and security. In addition, it supports cloud access, data backup, and data sharing without relying on crowded shared networks. For this reason, for internet service providers and large companies, optical cable is the base of dark fiber backbone networks. Overall, these networks provide fast and flexible connections. Not only do they support more online services, but they also connect different areas and prepare for future needs, which makes dark fiber a good choice for stable performance and long-term growth. Key advantages of optical cable As digital work grows, networks must be fast and stable. Optical cable is a common choice because it fixes many issues in older networks. It helps businesses run daily tasks and handle more data as they grow. Speed is not the only need. Businesses also want networks that work well, stay safe, and are easy to expand. Optical cable gives steady connections, better safety, and simple growth, which is why many companies use it today. 1. Faster data transmission speeds Fiber networks send data very fast, close to the speed of light, and can easily handle gigabit speeds. Copper cables are much slower in comparison. Businesses that use large amounts of data see clear benefits from this performance. Speed is often the main reason companies move to newer fiber networks. 2. Better signal quality and reliability Optical cable keeps signals strong over long distances and is not easily affected by interference. Copper cables often face signal loss and outside noise. With more stable connections, businesses can rely on steady network performance. This reliability is very important for daily operations and critical systems. 3. Stronger security Fiber connections are more secure because they do not send out electrical signals that can be tapped. Copper cables are easier to intercept using electronic methods. Data sent through fiber is harder to access without permission. This makes fiber a good choice for organizations that handle sensitive information. 4. Higher bandwidth capacity A single fiber line can carry much more data than a copper cable of the same size. It can also send multiple signals at the same time. This helps networks handle growth without major changes. Choosing fiber makes it easier to support future needs. 5. Long life and better value over time Optical cable is durable and can last for many years with little maintenance. Copper cables wear out faster, especially in tough conditions. While the first cost may be higher, fiber reduces repair and replacement costs over time. This makes it a smart long-term investment for many businesses. Why dark fiber matters for enterprise networks? Dark fiber is important for enterprise networks because it lets companies control their network, security, and future growth using optical cable infrastructure. With this approach, companies own their bandwidth and therefore do not share the network with others. As a result, this helps keep the network simple, stable, and reliable for daily business use. For this reason, ARNet is a good choice for companies that need dark fiber services with a wide optical cable network across Southeast Asia. In addition, its complete support helps companies connect faster and at the same time keep the network running well. To learn more, visit ARNet’s website and plan for future needs with its dark fiber services. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet
Cabling and Dark Fiber: 4+ Practical Tips to Boost Speed, Security, and Uptime
Cabling is the base of modern networks. It means the cables and links that move data between devices and places. These include fiber cables, copper cables, and coaxial cables. They carry voice, video, and data inside a business. Good cabling keeps connections steady, reduces problems, and supports daily work. A network needs good planning, proper setup, and regular checks to work well and stay safe. Over time, this helps the network last longer in data centers and business networks. To see how it helps different needs, look at the main types used today. What are the three types of cabling? There are three main types of cabling used in networks, where each type serves different needs, such as speed, distance, and daily use. Some work best in offices and small networks, while others support larger systems that carry large amounts of data. Below is a simple explanation of each type. Cabling practical tips for enhanced network performance Before looking at specific best practices, it is important to know that cabling is a basic part of how a network works. Good planning helps keep the network steady, supports growth, and allows data to move smoothly as needs increase. It also helps lower the risk of problems caused by weak or messy connections. Starting with a clear and simple approach helps organizations deal with future growth and technology changes more easily. By setting easy rules from the start, teams can build a network that is easier to manage, fix, and improve over time. This leads naturally into the key points explained next. 1. Plan cabling before starting Make simple drawings and choose where cables will go before work starts. Check what the network needs now and later. Look at the area to find clear paths and avoid trouble spots. Good planning helps stop mistakes, saves time, and helps new cabling work well with the current network. 2. Use fiber cabling for long runs Use fiber cables for main links and long runs that need fast and steady data. Fiber is not affected by electrical noise and can send data far without problems. It also helps keep data safe. Using fiber helps the network stay strong and ready for future needs. 3. Keep simple cabling records and stock lists Write down basic details for all cabling, such as type, path, install date, and past fixes. Use easy tools or lists to track where cables are and their condition. Check these records often so problems can be found and fixed faster. Good records make daily work easier and reduce mistakes. 4. Install cables correctly and test them Install cables by following basic rules and have trained workers check the work. Test each cable after installation to make sure the signal is good before use. Check fiber connections so signal loss stays low. Careful installation and testing help avoid future problems and service downtime. 5. Use field teams for regular checks and repairs Place field workers in key areas so they can reach problems quickly. Do regular checks and simple maintenance to find issues early. Make sure teams have enough tools and spare parts. Regular field work helps keep the network stable and working well. Optimizing network infrastructure for business growth Network cabling infrastructure is a long term investment that affects connectivity, security, and daily operations for many years. Good planning that uses fiber cables, clear records, and proper installation helps networks grow with the business. By following simple best practices, organizations can improve performance, reduce downtime, and keep important data and communications safe. ARNet is a reliable choice for organizations that need stable and long lasting network infrastructure. With more than 10,000 kilometers of dark fiber across Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, ARNet provides steady cabling and connectivity through its Design, Build, and Operate model. Ongoing monitoring, clear service agreements, and access to over 60 data centers help support secure and scalable growth. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet
Cabling System: How It Connects to Your Dark Fiber Networks
Modern organizations need stable network systems to support daily work and keep devices and systems connected. At the center of this setup, the cabling system acts as the base for all connections in a building. It creates clear paths that organize cables, connectors, and hardware so data can move smoothly. According to Kings Research, the global structured cabling market was valued at USD 11.45 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 17.97 billion by 2032, showing steady growth in infrastructure. As networks expand beyond one building, it becomes important to understand how internal systems connect to outside dark fiber networks. This helps data centers, office buildings, and telecom providers build connections that can grow with their needs. This article explains the basics of cabling systems and how they link to dark fiber. Kings Research also reports that North America held 34.09% of the structured cabling market in 2024, supported by strong use in commercial buildings and data centers. Because of this, organizations now need dependable infrastructure as bandwidth needs continue to rise. This creates new demand for solutions that combine in-building cabling with dark fiber. As a result, network managers must build systems that work for today while leaving room for future growth. What is a cabling system? A cabling system is a planned setup that organizes cables, connectors, patch panels, and other hardware in a building or site. Global Growth Insights reports that over 52% of companies are now upgrading their cabling to support higher data needs. This shows how important a clean and well-organized design is for keeping networks stable. A structured cabling setup gives steady performance by following set standards. It also helps cut costs compared to messy or unplanned layouts. Companies that use structured cabling spend less on maintenance and fix problems faster. They also have more room to grow as their tech needs change. The research also shows that almost 55% of IoT setups depend on structured cabling. This proves that structured cabling supports new technology needs. Modern cabling systems now use copper and fiber optic cables in organized paths. This setup makes installs faster and changes easier. This setup also reduces downtime during upgrades, helps improve airflow in equipment rooms, and makes documentation simpler for ongoing maintenance. Main parts of a cabling system A cabling system has six main parts that work together to connect devices in a building. These parts are the EF, ER, backbone cabling, TRs/IDFs, horizontal cabling, and WA parts. Together, they form a complete cabling setup. Global Growth Insights also reports that about 50% of smart building projects use structured cabling to support automation and monitoring. These parts follow industry standards so different equipment and brands can work well together. Here are the parts you should know: Connecting the cabling system to dark fiber The handoff point where providers deliver dark fiber is usually at the Entrance Facility. This is where outside cables enter a building and link to the inside network. At this spot, organizations set up the needed connectors and patch panels to join the provider’s cable with their own cabling system. Then, backbone cabling carries the dark fiber connection to equipment rooms that hold the gear used to “light” the fibers. This setup helps organizations grow their dark fiber use in a clean and planned way as their bandwidth needs increase. Data centers now lease more dark fiber to support safe, high-speed links between sites that run cloud services. Knowing how cabling system parts work with dark fiber networks helps teams plan better for both current and future needs. As a result, they can build a network that is easier to scale and manage over time. ARNet provides dark fiber solutions that connect data centers, office buildings, and key network areas across Southeast Asia. The company is based in Malaysia and also operates in Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia. With long experience in building and running fiber networks, ARNet supports organizations that need strong partners for cabling and dark fiber projects. As a result, we help customers plan, build, and grow their infrastructure with confidence. Clients can rely on ARNet for custom designs, fast builds, and full project support across the region’s growing digital network. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet