July 25, 2024 – As Microsoft continues to expand its generative AI services such as Copilot for enterprises, organizations, educational customers, and general consumers, the company has announced a new partnership with network system provider Lumen Technologies. This collaboration aims to enhance the capacity and capabilities of Microsoft’s AI network, leveraging the Microsoft Cloud to further drive Lumen’s digital transformation.
According to Microsoft, Lumen’s private connectivity architecture will play a crucial role in connecting the company to its growing number of data centers. Lumen’s Private Connectivity Fabric, a customized network, offers Microsoft access to its existing dedicated fiber network and new fiber connections on both existing and new network paths.
With the increasing demand for data, this AI-supported infrastructure is designed to strengthen the connectivity between Microsoft’s data centers by providing the necessary network capacity, performance, stability, and speed required by customers.
Although the financial details of the new deal remain undisclosed, it is mentioned that this service could potentially increase Lumen’s cash flow by over $20 million in the coming year.
Lumen Technologies, which was founded in 1930 and has undergone several transformations over the past century, previously operated under various names such as Century Telephone Enterprise and CenturyLink, before finally renaming itself as Lumen Technologies in 2020. This partnership marks a significant step in Lumen’s journey towards digital transformation and further solidifies Microsoft’s position in the AI services market.
