KDDI Launches Large-Scale Deployment of Cluster-Based Distributed Disaggregated Backbone Routers Enabling Flexible Capacity Expansion

KDDI Corporation

TOKYO―KDDI Corporation today announced the launch of commercial deployment of its Cluster-Based Distributed Disaggregated Backbone Router ("DDBR cluster") across major backbone sites [1] in Japan, expanding core network capacity to address rapid traffic growth driven by AI and data-intensive applications.

This deployment marks a significant shift toward transforming backbone networks into scalable, open infrastructure designed to meet the demands of AI-driven traffic. KDDI confirmed that this architecture can reduce network equipment deployment costs by approximately 50% [2] compared to conventional chassis-based routers.

The DDBR cluster represents a next-generation, carrier-grade scalable architecture for backbone networks. Unlike traditional chassis routers―where proprietary hardware and software are tightly integrated―the DDBR cluster adopts an open, disaggregated model that separates hardware and software, combined with a distributed cluster design in which multiple devices function as a single logical router.

This architecture enables fine-grained, on-demand capacity expansion aligned with traffic demand, eliminates dependency on proprietary vendor-specific systems, and significantly enhances flexibility in vendor selection and network design. It fundamentally redefines how backbone networks are built and scaled, shifting from monolithic systems to distributed, software-driven infrastructure.

KDDI is one of the leading telecom operators in Japan to execute large-scale commercial deployment of this cluster-based distributed disaggregated backbone router architecture, with the goal of completing nationwide deployment by the end of fiscal year 2027.

Going forward, KDDI will leverage the operational expertise gained through deployment and its proven track record with the DDBR cluster to further accelerate network openness―fostering a multi-vendor ecosystem while strengthening next-generation network infrastructure to support the rapid expansion of AI-driven workloads and data-intensive services across industries.

■Deployment Benefits

1. Up to ~50% Cost Reduction with Improved Operational Efficiency

Because the DDBR cluster is based on open architecture principles, KDDI can combine hardware and software without being constrained by a single vendor, enabling more competitive sourcing aligned with performance and operational requirements. This also allows capacity to be scaled incrementally based on demand, avoiding overprovisioning typically required in traditional chassis-based systems.

In this commercial deployment, KDDI uses DriveNets software together with UfiSpace [7] hardware for core routers at major backbone sites, resulting in approximately 50% lower network equipment deployment costs compared with conventional chassis-based routers.

KDDI is also adopting OpenConfig―an industry-standard data model―to enable consistent, vendor-neutral operations across multi-vendor environments. In addition, KDDI has automated key configuration and validation workflows required for DDBR cluster deployment.

As carrier networks become increasingly multi-vendor, vendor-neutral automation is expected to significantly reduce operational complexity, streamline deployment, and lower ongoing operational workloads.

2. Higher End-to-End Network Reliability Through Cluster-Based Resilience

The DDBR cluster scales out by adding devices to increase throughput and system capacity, allowing KDDI to right-size deployments based on traffic demand. In a distributed configuration of multiple smaller routers, processing continues even if part of the system fails.

This built-in redundancy enhances overall network reliability through improved fault isolation and enables more stable, high-quality communications services.

KDDI will continue to promote open networking through its activities in TIP and continue to lead next-generation network infrastructure.