SFP28 Modules: Guide for Data Centers and 5G Fronthaul Networks

25G SFP28 Selection Decision: Avoiding Own-pass Strategies and Choosing Wisely

Finding the right 25G SFP28 module can be approached with similar principles as looking for the right tool in a toolbox; you must take into consideration the specific job to avoid poor or costly decisions. There are four principles that can help in selecting long-haul SFP28 modules successfully: transmission distance, fiber type, budget, and network topology.

Transmission distance drives the type of module needed. Short-range connections within the confines of a data center may utilize an SFP28 SR on short distances, whereas connections that last kilometers on a campus-wide footprint will require SFP28 LR or WDM modules to maintain signal integrity.

Fiber type contributes to loss and module selection. Simple multimode fiber may suit even short runs when considering the cost and the distance, whereas single-mode fiber may serve at longer distances, but any long-distance module will require a different type of SFP28 transceiver.

No matter the purpose, operating within a budget will play into the decision of whether to buy a premium OEM module or a third-party option. Ultimately, there is the balance of cost and reliability that will also shape the intent of longer-term inherent resilience and less expense.

Network design must also be a factor for future upgrades and scaling. Choosing modules that support your design will help avoid upgrades in a number of modules and the cost that might be incurred.

By relying on these four principles and reducing the complexity of using complicated vendor compatibility tables and focusing on high-level principles, you can reduce the complexity of 25G SFP28 module selection. Taking a step back to apply this thinking allows for an efficient, cost-smart, and scalable network-designed future.

Summary of Highest Considerations:

• Find module type based on required transmission distance module definition.
• Choose type of module fiber type (single-mode vs. multimode).
• Factor budget mindful of reliability.
• Consider network topology with future plans.

The right and thoughtful selection of 25G SFP28 will allow optimal network performance and return on investment.

25G LWDM SFP28 vs CWDM vs DWDM SFP28 vs Standard 25G SFP28: Definitive Comparison and Selection Advice

When choosing the right 25G SFP28 technology, you can think of it as buying a motor vehicle: each has its own advantages and optimal use cases. LWDM, CWDM, DWDM, and standard 25G SFP28 modules have distinct differences in cost, distance, channel capacity, complexity, and maintenance requirements, all of which affect network design decisions.

To help visualize this comparison, the table below provides a side-by-side evaluation of these fundamental component technologies:

Standard 25G SFP28 modules are best utilized for short reach purposes, in a data center or campus network, from which you simply want a cost-effective and relatively simple connection. However, when a more practical medium-type connection is required in many channels across longer reaches, you would consider CWDM.

Used in metropolitan and enterprise networks, CWDM allows cost-effective increases in channel density while optimizing and extending reach due to its wider channel spacing than the other options. Lastly, if you’re really looking for a connection with the highest density and long-haul use, 25G SFP28 DWDM modules, by design, will support the most narrow wavelengths while using those wavelengths across multiple channels to achieve the highest capacity.

Depending on the application, this could simply lead to faster speeds, or it could be intended for scaling across many channels. The added complexity and cost of going with DWDM are only justified if a long-haul backbone with a high number of channels and subsequent highest density is a requirement for a data center or campus link.

LWDM modules are your best balance between added distance and channel count in either CWDM or DWDM (at potentially less complexity and lower cost). They offer a good middle ground for networks looking to improve capacity while avoiding the overhead of DWDM. Each application has its ideal deployment, and the multiple solutions to meet those applications allow for flexibility.

Scenario-Based Recommendations

• Standard 25G SFP28 modules are your best fit in deployment for short data center links with basic needs.
• In other cases where you are limited in fiber resources and need moderate extension, CWDM modules will fit the bill.
• If you require high-capacity long-haul backbones that demand many channels, while accepting the improved complexity, then you would go to the DWDM option.
• If you require a cost-effective method to increase channel counts or distance, while avoiding the increased complexity, then the LWDM option is your best technological option.

The above table and scenario-based advice can allow network planners the technical operational insight they need to evaluate conditions that meet their budget, performance needs, and operational capacity. If you are looking for the best fit, you can also consider the variation in the medium type as different vehicles designed to traverse different terrains and distances in your network journey. In this case, the “best” 25G SFP28 technology is the one that serves the unique journey of your needs.