A team of scientists from University College London has discovered a way to dramatically increase data transfer speeds over fibre-optic cables.

The research team managed to transfer data in a greater range of colours than usual optical fibre cables to increase the data transfer rate. The scientists managed to achieve 178.08 terabits per second (Tbps), which is 178 megabits per second (Mbps) speed over a 40km optical fibre loop in a lab. This record is almost 3 million times faster than the average UK home connection which is 66 Mbps.

The discovery will form the new foundation for the next generation of the internet to support 5G networks used by data-hungry applications and devices that will drive smart cities in the future. Internet traffic and data have increased dramatically over the last 10 years as more applications and devices require an internet connection. The availability of this new speed will allow faster internet for everyone, which means a better, productive economy.