Nokia deploys neutral 25GPON network for ACES-NH

Details: John Tanner; Category: Optical & Fixed Networks; 25 February 2025; 9864 views

Nokia announced on Monday that ACES-NH – a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Advanced Communication and Electronics Systems (ACES) – has deployed the country’s first 25GPON neutral host network.

ACES-NH provides neutral host services that allows multiple service providers to share a fibre broadband network, which can improve efficiency and reduce infrastructure duplication.

Nokia said the initial 25GPON deployment includes optical line terminals (OLTs) and optical network terminals (ONTs). The network also utilises Nokia’s Altiplano Access Controller to leverage automation to streamline operations.

Kamal Ballout, head of Middle East and Africa Enterprise and Partners for Nokia’s Network Infrastructure division, said the deployment equips ACES-NH with a future-ready fibre platform that can support evolving use cases, from residential broadband and enterprise connectivity to smart city services and industrial applications.

“With 25G PON, infrastructure providers like ACES-NH can address residential, enterprise, and mobile transport needs on a single network, reducing costs and accelerating digital innovation across Saudi Arabia,” Ballout said in a statement.

Dr. Luai Hasnawi, chief of fixed network at ACES-NH, added that the 25GPON deployment would transforms fibre connectivity in Saudi Arabia, “giving multiple service providers secure, high-speed access over a shared infrastructure and reinforcing ACES-NH’ leadership in neutral host solutions.”