The Azores Fiber Optic System (AFOS) is a state-of-the-art submarine cable system designed to enhance telecommunications connectivity among the islands of the Azores and provide seamless integration with global networks. The AFOS aims to significantly improve bandwidth and internet service quality for both residents and businesses in the region.
The AFOS was officially declared ready for service in December 2020. This timely launch marked a significant milestone in the digital transformation of the Azores, which had been historically hampered by limited connectivity options.
The AFOS features multiple cable landing stations, strategically placed to optimize connectivity throughout the Azores archipelago. The primary landing stations are located on the islands of São Miguel, Terceira, and Faial. These stations serve as critical hubs for communication, linking the islands to mainland Portugal and other international networks.
With a total capacity of 10 terabits per second (Tbps), the AFOS is designed to accommodate the growing demand for data and internet services in the region. This substantial capacity ensures that the Azores can support high-bandwidth applications, such as streaming services, cloud computing, and other data-intensive operations, contributing to enhanced social and economic development.
The expected lifespan of the AFOS cable is approximately 25 years. This durability is essential for ensuring long-term investment in the region's telecommunications infrastructure, providing stability and reliability to users over the decades to come.
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