Arnet

Long Haul Dark Fiber Networks: Definition, Benefits, and Market Growth

long haul

Fiber optic networks, including long haul networks, are very important today. They help data travel long distances between cities, countries, and continents. Because of this, businesses can send information faster and more securely. Today, companies need higher speed and more capacity for cloud services, AI, and big data. As a result, the demand for dark fiber is growing. Dark fiber means unused fiber optic cables that companies can use to build their own private networks. Long haul dark fiber networks connect locations that are far apart. They help move large amounts of data over long distances. According to Polaris Market Research, the global dark fiber market reached USD 6.51 billion in 2024. This shows strong demand for fast and high-capacity connections. What is the definition of a long haul? In telecommunications, long haul refers to fiber optic cables that cover very long distances. These distances can be hundreds or even thousands of kilometers. In simple terms, these networks connect cities, regions, and countries. They can run on land or under the sea using submarine cables. Meanwhile, the market keeps growing. Mordor Intelligence report shows that the dark fiber market could reach USD 9.21 billion in 2026 and grow to USD 17.06 billion by 2031. This growth happens because more companies use cloud services and AI. Most importantly, long haul networks connect large data centers and global network hubs. Companies choose dark fiber when they want full control over how their data moves across long distances. Key benefits of long haul dark fiber networks Long haul dark fiber networks have many clear benefits. It includes: Role of long haul networks in global connectivity Long haul dark fiber networks are the main physical paths for global data traffic. Because of this, Asia Pacific is growing very fast. Fortune Business Insights says Asia Pacific had 42.10% of the global dark fiber market in 2025. This growth comes from more people using the internet and needing faster, more stable connections. In Southeast Asia, large tech companies use private fiber links to connect data centers. This helps them avoid regular internet providers and get more direct and reliable connections. Building your network infrastructure strategy As data use grows around the world, long haul dark fiber is still important. It gives full control, large capacity, and saves money over time. Because of this, many companies choose dark fiber. ARNet runs a big fiber network in Southeast Asia. It works in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. ARNet owns more than 10,000 kilometers of fiber and connects over 60 data centers. ARNet also offers full dark fiber services. These include long-distance links between cities and countries, city fiber, and last-mile fiber to buildings. Many companies trust ARNet because it owns its licenses and fiber network. As a result, ARNet gives stable and steady service across Southeast Asia. As one provider, it can build and manage networks faster and more easily. With live monitoring and strong systems, ARNet delivers 99.99% uptime. Because of this, it is a good choice for digital work, especially for cloud companies that need their own fiber networks. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet

7 Types of Data Center Cooling Systems That Keep Your Servers Running

Data Center Cooling

Data centers store computer servers and networking equipment. Because servers work all day and night, they produce heat. When there is too much heat, it can damage the equipment. As a result, damaged servers stop working. This can cost businesses money and important data. Data center cooling helps prevent these problems. This industry is growing fast. In fact, the market reached USD 26.31 billion in 2025, according to Grand View Research. Many companies now use data centers, which are shared facilities for multiple businesses. All of these centers need good cooling systems. In this article, we will explain the main types of data center cooling systems. What is a data center cooling system? A Data Center Cooling System is a setup that keeps a data center’s servers and equipment at the right temperature. It works by removing the heat made by servers and other equipment. This way, servers run safely and last longer. Cooling systems have many parts. Some systems blow cold air into the room. Others remove hot air. Then, the cold air flows around the servers to keep them at a safe temperature. This process happens continuously while servers are running. How much cooling does a data center need? The cooling needs depend on how many servers are in the data center. For example, more servers make more heat. A small room with 10 servers needs less cooling than a large data center with thousands of servers. Cooling also uses a lot of electricity. Research from Data Center Knowledge shows that cooling can use 30-40% of a data center’s total power. In addition, powerful computers, like AI servers or graphics processors, produce even more heat. Therefore, the data center cooling system must handle this heat safely. Types of data center cooling systems Data center cooling systems use either air or liquid to remove heat. Air systems are older but still common. Liquid systems are newer and can remove more heat. Some data centers use both types together. To understand it more, below is the explanation of these types. 1. Air cooling systems Air cooling moves air around the room to control temperature. This method is common in most data centers. It includes several types: 2. Liquid cooling systems Liquid cooling uses water or special fluids. It removes more heat than air systems. According to BIS Research, the liquid cooling market reached $5,654.8 million in 2024. This method includes: Choosing the right cooling system Choosing a cooling system for a data center requires planning. You should consider your equipment, budget, and local weather. Many centers use more than one type of cooling. This helps save energy and provides backup options. Also, regular maintenance keeps the system working and prevents costly problems. Good cooling system also needs fast and reliable networks. For example, ARNet provides dark fiber networks in Southeast Asia. Dark fiber is a private fiber optic network you control. In fact, ARNet covers over 10,000 km and connects 60 colocation data centers in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. ARNet owns and manages the network equipment. This means we can fix problems quickly and add new connections fast. Our dark fiber allows upgrades to speed anytime. As a result, we provide 99.99% uptime. This network helps data centers run cooling systems smoothly and reliably. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet

3 Types of Colocation Data Centers That Matter for Your Business

Colocation Data Center

Businesses today make more data than before. Because of this, they need a safe place to keep it. A colocation data center is a place where businesses can put their servers and equipment. This way, they do not need to build their own data center. Many businesses use colocation since it is cheaper and easier. For example, they can rent space in a professional data center instead of making one. In this article, we will explain what a colocation data center is, how it works, and the three main types for different business needs. What is a colocation data center? A colocation data center is a place where businesses rent space for their IT equipment. In addition, the center gives power, cooling, internet, and security. Companies bring their own servers and other hardware. Moreover, using this type of data center can save money. Businesses do not need to build their own data center. Instead, the provider takes care of the building, power backup, and security. At the same time, companies still control their own equipment and data. According to Grand View Research, the global colocation market was USD 69.41 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 165.45 billion by 2030.  How colocation data center works? Colocation data centers work by sharing space among multiple companies. For example, each company has its own space. Also, the center gives power, cooling, and other things to run the servers. In addition, it has backup generators to keep power on. Meanwhile, cooling systems stop servers from getting too hot. Moreover, security includes cameras, locked doors, and staff. Then, the servers connect to the internet using many networks. As a result, the colocation data center takes care of all these things. Therefore, companies get safe and reliable service. Additionally, staff watch the center all the time and fix problems fast. Types of colocation data center Different businesses need different space and services. Colocation data centers have three main types. Each type is for different business sizes and needs. Each type gives different benefits. The benefits depend on the size of the business, money, and technical needs. Here are the details of each type. Choosing the right colocation data center type depends on how much equipment you have. It also depends on your growth plans and your budget limits. Building better connectivity for your data center Colocation data centers need fast and strong connections. They use fiber optic cables to move data quickly. These cables link data centers and connect them to the internet. Strong fiber networks reduce delays and give better service. To meet this need, ARNet provides dark fiber solutions in Southeast Asia. Dark fiber is fiber that companies can use by themselves. ARNet has over 10,000 kilometers of fiber and connects 60 data centers in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. This helps hyperscalers and internet companies connect their facilities. We own and run all of the networks. We do not rely on other companies. This helps us to give you fast setup, steady service, and over 99.99% uptime. Our solutions also can help you to monitor the network to fix problems early. Because of this, businesses using a colocation data center get one provider managing all connections, making it simple and reliable. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet

Data Center Infrastructure: 3 Essential Components You Need to Know

Data Center Infrastructure

Businesses use digital services every day. These services help them work and serve customers. They also need systems to store data and run applications. These systems must work all the time. Because of this, data center infrastructure is very important. It helps keep systems running and data safe and available. When businesses understand data center infrastructure, they can choose better technology. This article explains the basic parts that help a data center work well. What is data center infrastructure? Data center infrastructure is all the tools and systems used to run a data facility. In simple words, it includes what is needed to store, process, and protect data. These facilities support technology that businesses use every day. Because of this, they need careful planning. This is because the systems must run all the time without stopping. When a system goes down, companies can lose money. In 2024, a report by the Ponemon Institute showed that downtime cost about $9,000 per minute. For this reason, reliability is very important.  What are the three main components of a data center infrastructure The three main parts of data center infrastructure are network infrastructure, storage infrastructure, and computing resources. Together, they help the data center run smoothly. Each part has a specific job. At the same time, they must work together to support business operations. 1. Network infrastructure Network infrastructure helps systems talk to each other. It uses routers, switches, cables, and firewalls to send data fast and safely. Without it, systems cannot share data and apps cannot work well. 2. Storage infrastructure Storage infrastructure keeps data safe and easy to access. It uses tools like hard drives, SSDs, networks, and backup systems. The same data is saved in more than one place, so it is still available if one system fails. It also works with data centers to make sure data is always ready. 3. Computing resources Computing resources help computers work and run programs. They include servers and processors. More power and virtualization let computers do tasks faster, run more programs, and stay reliable. Building tomorrow’s digital foundation As data center infrastructure grows, dark fiber becomes more important. Dark fiber is fiber optic cable that is not used until a company turns it on. When a company uses it, they control how data moves on the network. This helps businesses add more bandwidth when needed. Dark fiber also gives flexibility and security. Companies can manage capacity, keep data private, and upgrade equipment without changing the fiber. This makes it easy to expand networks. Based on research from Mordor Intelligence, the demand for dark fiber is growing in Southeast Asia. Its market in Asia Pacific may grow 12.5% each year until 2029. ARNet provides dark fiber for modern digital infrastructure. We help large businesses and hyperscalers in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. Our services include long haul fiber, metro fiber, and last mile fiber. These connections link facilities to key network exchange points. Our networks give low latency and high bandwidth, which are very important for data centers. Businesses choose ARNet because we build strong fiber networks. We work with clients to make solutions that help them grow. ARNet dark fiber gives companies a flexible and scalable network for long-term success. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet

IP Address Format Explained: 4 Essential Types for Network Setup

ip address format

The internet connects billions of devices worldwide. Each connection requires a unique identifier to communicate properly. This identifier is known as an IP address. It follows a specific IP address format to ensure devices can send and receive data correctly. Understanding how IP addresses work becomes particularly important when businesses set up their network infrastructure. This is especially true when using advanced solutions like dark fiber networks that require proper addressing schemes. For this reason, companies that manage their own networks must understand IP address format and its types. This knowledge helps networks run smoothly and stay secure. At the same time, whether a business builds a small office network or a large system, IP addressing becomes the base of stable connectivity. What is the correct format of an IP address? An IP address follows a standard format so devices can recognize each other on a network. In most cases, networks use IPv4. This IP address format uses four numbers separated by dots. Each number can range from 0 to 255. For example, 192.168.1.1 is a common address used in homes and offices. In this format, each number is called an octet. This is because each one represents 8 bits of data. Together, the address contains 32 bits. As a result, IPv4 can create about 4.3 billion unique addresses. However, the number of connected devices keeps growing. According to IoT Analytics, IoT devices are expected to grow by 14% in 2025 and reach 39 billion by 2030. Because of this growth, IPv4 addresses are becoming limited. Therefore, IPv6 was developed to solve this issue. IPv6 uses a different IP address format. It has eight groups of numbers and letters, separated by colons. One example is 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334. This format supports a much larger number of addresses. In fact, it allows 340 undecillion combinations. Even so, many networks still use IPv4 today. However, IPv6 use continues to grow as IPv4 becomes harder to obtain. What are the 4 types of IP addresses? There are four main types of IP addresses including, public, private, static, and dynamic. Each type has a different role in network setup. By understanding these types, businesses can choose the right IP address format for their needs. Building network infrastructure with proper IP address management Understanding IP address format and its types helps businesses manage networks more effectively. As networks grow, more devices connect every day. Because of this, good IP address management becomes essential. When businesses apply these addressing systems, they also need strong infrastructure to support them. This is where ARNet plays an important role as a trusted dark fiber provider in Southeast Asia. We support hyperscalers and large enterprises that need high-speed network infrastructure. Our dark fiber network spans over 10,000 km and connects more than 60 data centers across Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. In addition, we are the only single-entity provider in the region that controls all critical licenses. Because of this, businesses benefit from seamless connectivity under one unified network. Our AI-grade, all-fiber infrastructure gives full flexibility to apply your own IP address format using your own equipment. At the same time, ARNet owns and operates the entire network, from planning to deployment. This ensures reliability at every stage. Along with this, our experienced team provides professional support during network setup. Visit ARNet to learn how our reliable dark fiber solutions can support your business across Southeast Asia. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet

Understanding Internet Connectivity: A Simple Guide to Dark Fiber Networks

Internet Connectivity

Internet connectivity is important for people and businesses around the world. Today, companies use the internet every day to run their work, connect with customers, and save important data. Because of this, the quality of the internet affects how well a business works and competes.  To answer this need, dark fiber connections give companies a simple and clear solution. In simple words, these networks use fiber cables that only one company uses. Because of this, companies can rent or buy the cables and build their own private network. As a result, they get better control over their internet connection. According to Grand View Research, the global dark fiber network market reached USD 6.90 billion in 2025.  Moreover, experts expect the market to grow to USD 21.88 billion by 2033. This growth shows that more companies want faster, more stable, and more reliable internet connections.  What is meant by internet connectivity?  In simple terms, internet connectivity means you can connect to the internet. With this connection, your devices can send and get information. Because of this, this helps you open websites, use apps, send emails, and also keep data on the internet.  In addition, internet connectivity also means how fast the internet is and how stable the connection is. When the connection is good, data can move easily and smoothly between your device and the internet.  How does internet connectivity work?  Internet connectivity works by linking your device to the internet through an Internet Service Provider (ISP). In general, this link can use a cable or a WiFi signal. At the same time, the ISP helps send your information to the right place.  In practice, data moves through fiber cables, copper cables, or wireless signals. However, in dark fiber networks, companies use their own fiber cables to send data between places. Because of this, this makes the connection faster and safer. As a result, people do not use the internet with others, so the speed is better.  What are types of internet connectivity?  There are many kinds of internet connections for different uses, like broadband internet, fiber optic, wireless internet, dark fiber, and Digital Subscriber Line (DSL). Each kind has different how fast it is, how stable it is, and how it is set up. Below is a short explanation of each one.  Building better networks with ARNet  Internet connection is very important for businesses. Many companies need fast and stable data to run their daily operations. Because of this, more businesses are choosing dark fiber.  Dark fiber gives companies more control over their network. It offers private bandwidth, better security, and makes it easier to expand as the business grows. Studies also show that many companies are investing more in strong and reliable internet infrastructure.  ARNet provides dark fiber services for businesses. The company builds and manages fiber networks in key locations. This allows businesses to create their own private networks with secure and dedicated bandwidth.  ARNet is a trusted dark fiber provider in Southeast Asia. It operates in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand. Many large telecom companies and hyperscalers use ARNet for their core networks. By choosing ARNet, businesses get wide network coverage, reliable support, and a secure network that can grow with their needs.  About the Author     Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet 

4 Things Business Owners Must Know About Dark Fiber Network

Dark Fiber Network

Businesses today need fast and reliable internet to run their work. Because more companies use cloud systems, video calls, and online apps, they need to send data faster. This makes many businesses look for better dark fiber network solutions that can handle a lot of data. A dark fiber network is a good option because it gives businesses full control over their internet connection. Many companies choose it because it is secure and easy to expand when their needs grow. By understanding how dark fiber works, businesses can choose the right network for their needs. What is dark fiber networking? Dark fiber networking refers to unused optical fiber cables that have been installed but are not currently carrying data signals. Specifically, these fiber optic cables are called “dark” because no light passes through them to transmit information. Telecommunication companies and network providers typically install more fiber than they need during initial construction to prepare for future demand. As a result, organizations can lease or purchase these unused fibers to build their own private networks. This approach gives companies direct control over their bandwidth capacity and network management. In fact, Grand View Research shows that the global dark fiber network market was valued at USD 6.90 billion in 2025 and shows strong growth potential as more businesses recognize its benefits. Key benefits of dark fiber network infrastructure A dark fiber network gives many benefits compared to regular internet connections. Businesses that use dark fiber get these benefits: What is the difference between dark fiber and regular fiber? The main difference is who owns and controls the network. Each option is good for different business needs and budgets. Here is a simple explanation: A. Dark fiber With dark fiber, a company rents or buys the fiber cable. The company sets up and runs its own network equipment. This option needs skilled staff and more setup cost. However, the company has full control of speed and data size. It can change or upgrade equipment at any time. Dark fiber is good for companies that use a lot of data and need strong safety. B. Regular fiber With regular fiber, a company buys internet service from a provider. The provider owns and runs the network and equipment. The company pays a monthly fee based on speed. This option is easy to use and cheaper at the start. However, the company depends on the provider for speed changes. Regular fiber is good for companies that need basic and steady internet. Who owns the most dark fiber? ARNet owns and operates a reliable dark fiber network across Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand. It is built to support modern businesses with secure, high-speed, and scalable connectivity. Many major companies and hyperscalers trust ARNet to run their important business operations. In addition, ARNet offers custom connectivity solutions using its dark fiber network. For this reason, these solutions are suitable for businesses that need dedicated bandwidth for data centers, cloud services, and business applications. At the same time, the ARNet technical team works closely with clients to build a network that matches their needs. This way, the network works well today and stays ready for future use. On top of that, ARNet supports businesses from the beginning to the end of the project. Throughout the process, the team helps with planning, setup, installation, and maintenance. When compared to shared internet services, ARNet’s dark fiber solution is more stable and more secure. Because of these benefits, businesses get clear pricing, better security, and full control of their network. This makes ARNet a trusted partner for your business. About the Author    Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet

Understanding Network Connectivity in Dark Fiber Infrastructure

network connectivity

Network connectivity is how computers and devices connect to share information. For example, a global telecom organization reports that 68% of people around the world (5.5 billion people) use the internet in 2024. This shows how important good connections are for businesses and people today.  Companies need fast and reliable ways to connect their systems. That’s where dark fiber networks come in. Dark fiber networks give businesses their own private fiber cables. This helps them control their connection speed and quality. Therefore, learning about network connectivity helps businesses pick the right setup for their needs.  What is the meaning of network connectivity?  Network connectivity means devices can connect and talk to each other through a network. This lets information move from one place to another. You use network connectivity when you browse websites, send emails, make video calls, or access files stored online. Good network connectivity means your data moves fast and arrives safely.  How well your network works depends on a few things. These include how much data can travel at once, how fast it travels, and how reliable your cables and equipment are. For this reason, businesses need steady connections to keep their work running smoothly. They use these connections every day for customer service, storing data, and running their operations.  What are the different types of network connectivity?  Network connectivity comes in two main types. These are physical connections and wireless connections. Each type serves different needs depending on speed, stability, and use case. Below is the explanation of each type.  Physical connections  Physical connections use actual cables to link devices together. These cables can be made of copper wire or special glass fibers. Specifically, fiber optic cables send information as light signals through thin glass threads. As a result, these cables can carry lots of data very quickly over long distances. In this case, dark fiber means unused fiber cables that a company can rent or buy for their own private use.  Wireless connections  Wireless connections send data through the air without any cables. Instead, they use invisible signals similar to radio waves. For example, common types are Wi-Fi in your office, cell phone networks, and satellite signals. In fact, according to the GSMA State of Mobile Internet Connectivity 2024 report, 4.6 billion people use mobile internet on their phones. Wireless is convenient because you can move around freely. However, cable connections usually work faster and more reliably.  What can cause network connectivity issues?  Unfortunately, several problems can stop your network from working properly. These include DNS server downtime, incorrect DNS configurations, and network security settings blocking DNS traffic. Below is the explanation of each problem.  DNS server downtime  DNS servers work like phone books for the internet. They change website names into number codes that computers understand. DNS server downtime happens when these servers stop working. For instance, this can happen during repairs, attacks from hackers, or technical breakdowns. In 2025, several major DNS outages affected popular services, causing many websites to stop working. As a result, companies using only one DNS provider face bigger problems during these failures.  Incorrect DNS configurations  Wrong DNS settings stop devices from finding websites and online services. These mistakes happen when someone enters the wrong server addresses or sets up the system incorrectly. Small errors in these settings can make it hard or impossible for users to reach the websites they need.  Network security settings blocking DNS traffic  Security systems protect networks from threats and attacks. However, sometimes these security tools block good traffic by mistake. For example, strict security rules or old protection settings can stop DNS requests from going through. As a result, this creates problems for people trying to access websites and online tools.  Securing your network infrastructure  Strong network connectivity is necessary for business success today. Companies must pick systems that work reliably and can grow with their needs. Dark fiber gives businesses full control over how their network performs. These unused fiber optic cables can run on land, underwater, or above ground, and each type needs different protection based on whether it connects nearby areas or covers long distances. In fact, the global dark fiber network market reached USD 6.25 billion in 2024. This shows that more and more companies want their own private fiber cables.  For this reason, ARNet provides dark fiber solutions for companies that need better network connectivity. The company gives businesses their own private fiber cables that work faster and more reliably. As a result, ARNet’s services help companies avoid the connection problems that happen with shared networks.  Businesses should pick ARNet because the company offers reliable systems that grow as your company grows. ARNet’s private fiber networks remove speed limits and provide better security than regular shared services. This means your company can set up the network exactly how you need it. You can keep strong performance for all your important business activities. About the Author   Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet

Understanding IP Address Classes for Dark Fiber Networks

IP Address Classes

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

5 Simple Strategies to Set Up Dark Fiber Connectivity the Right Way (Beginner’s Guide)

dark fiber connectivity

The internet uses physical cables placed underground or on poles to move data between cities and countries. These cables help data centers keep websites, apps, and business systems working every day. When too many users share the same connection, the internet can become slow or unstable. This pushes companies to look for better dark fiber connectivity.  To fix this issue, many businesses choose dark fiber, which means using private fiber cables instead of shared ones. With dark fiber, companies control their own speed, equipment, and access. This makes the network more stable and improves dark fiber connectivity, even for people who are new to this industry.  Why is there so much dark fiber?  There is a lot of dark fiber because companies built too many internet cables in the past, especially during the 1990s tech boom. At that time, it was cheaper to add extra cables while digging than to install new ones later. Today, however, new technologies like AI, cloud services, and 5G need much faster internet. As a result, businesses can use these unused cables to get private and fast connections when they need them.  Does rain affect fiber internet?  No, rain does not slow down fiber internet or overall dark fiber connectivity. It is because the cables use tiny flashes of light to send information, not electricity. Light travels through glass, and water can’t stop light signals the way it interferes with electric wires.  However, big storms can knock down poles or break the pipes protecting the cables. That’s why building things correctly from the start is so important. It helps keep your internet working even during bad weather. Now let’s look at five simple strategies anyone can follow to set up dark fiber the right way.  Strategy 1: Build two different paths  Always have two separate cables going to the same place using completely different streets or paths. If a construction worker accidentally cuts one cable, your internet keeps working using the second cable, ensuring reliable dark fiber connectivity. Choose routes that never cross the same areas, document both locations with GPS, test each independently, and have a switching plan ready for emergencies.  Strategy 2: Use bigger pipes than you need  Cables go inside protective pipes underground, so always use pipes bigger than what you need right now. In five years you might need more cables for dark fiber connectivity, and big pipes let you add them without expensive digging. Use pipes that hold twice your current capacity, add extra empty pipes nearby, use quality plastic tubes inside for protection, and create access points every 500 feet.  Strategy 3: Research the market and demand  Before spending money on dark fiber, research how much internet capacity people need in your area because data centers need more speed every year. According to Grand View Research, the fiber optics industry is growing fast worldwide. Check how many data centers operate nearby, whether new businesses are moving in, what speeds companies need now versus later, and what competitors offer.  Strategy 4: Test everything before going live  Before customers start using your cables, test them thoroughly to find problems because a tiny crack or bend can cause outages later. Use special light-testing tools to check for breaks, measure signal strength from start to finish, test backup cables separately to ensure independence, save all results for future comparisons, and double-check connection points at both ends before launch. Finding issues early saves money on emergency repairs.  Strategy 5: Keep great records  Write down and map everything about your dark fiber connectivity in detail because when something breaks at 2 AM, your repair team needs to quickly find the problem. Create detailed maps showing where every cable is buried, label all equipment clearly, take photos of connection points, update records immediately after maintenance work, and share cable maps with the city so construction crews don’t accidentally dig them up. Good records mean faster fixes.  Building private network infrastructure that lasts  Building a private network takes more than just laying cable. You need to pay attention to physical details and plan for the long term. When you focus on diverse routes and thorough testing, you reduce tangible risks and keep service stable for your customers. These five dark fiber connectivity strategies will help your infrastructure stay dependable for decades.  The right partner can make all the difference with complex infrastructure challenges. ARNet works with operators to navigate construction and implementation. We bring hands-on expertise and proven industry experience for dark fiber connectivity. If you’re ready to secure your network foundation, visit our website and let’s get started.  About the Author  Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet