April 23, 2025
From Fiber to Airwaves: What Taara’s Laser Links Can Do
At GFiber, we’ve been pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with internet connectivity going back to 2010. So when we had the opportunity to test a promising new technology from Taara – a recent spinout from X, Alphabet’s moonshot factory – we jumped at the chance.
Taara uses wireless optical communication to transmit data through the air, delivering fiber-like speeds without the need for cables. It’s a game-changer for places where traditional fiber installation is challenging like city centers, remote communities, crowded events, and areas affected by network outages.
To see how this technology performs in real-world conditions, we partnered with Taara for a proof-of-concept trial of its laser link, Taara Lightbridge, in San Francisco. Over four weeks, we tested a high-speed wireless link between two buildings, measuring its performance across a variety of weather conditions.
Putting Taara to the Test
The trial ran from November to December 2024, using a 4.5-mile laser link. We monitored everything from throughput and latency to environmental factors like wind and rain, capturing data with a network monitoring system, high-resolution cameras, and weather sensors.
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The results? Taara delivered a rock-solid 20 Gbps connection on clear days with ultra-low latency and zero packet loss – on par with the best wired networks. It also outperformed traditional millimeter and microwave radios in throughput.
Key Takeaways
- Speed & Stability: Throughout four weeks of testing, Taara provided a seamless high-speed connection on clear days and demonstrated resilience in challenging conditions, proving its ability to move serious amounts of data.
- Network Flexibility: The system was quick to deploy and dismantle, making it an intriguing option for temporary or hard-to-reach locations.
- Hybrid Potential: A planned microwave backup will help ensure a resilient connection, even in adverse weather conditions.
Our pilot program provided valuable insights into how this cutting-edge technology performs in an urban environment. As Taara continues refining its approach, we’re excited to see how innovations like this could shape the future of connectivity.
At GFiber, we believe in the power of innovation, collaboration, and bold ideas. Whether it’s delivering fast, reliable service over fiber or exploring new wireless solutions, we’re always looking for ways to bring better internet to more people.
The journey to better, faster internet continues – stick around for more on what’s coming next!
Posted by James Alexander, GFiber Network Engineer
