StarHub launches ultra-low latency data centre connectivity service

StarHub has announced the launch of Low Latency Data Centre Connect, a secure on-demand connectivity service aimed at providing local and regional enterprises with ultra-low latency data centre connectivity.

This new service promises to enhance interconnection, improve access to cloud services and applications, and offer advanced network slicing and quantum secure communications.

According to Tan Kit Yong, Head of Enterprise Business Group at StarHub, "The need for low latency data centre connectivity has never been more pronounced. Low latency for cloud services is crucial for real-time data processing, faster application responsiveness, and seamless user experiences, particularly in time-sensitive operations and interactive applications."

"StarHub’s Low Latency Data Centre Connect empowers businesses to meet ever-increasing digital demands while providing the flexibility, security, and scalability needed for future growth."

The connectivity service is currently available across multiple data centres, with plans for further expansion. It offers interconnectivity with latency under 1ms to cable landing stations, advanced SDN capabilities with an integrated self-service portal, quantum secure communications, and service orchestration features. This range of functionalities is designed to reduce costs, improve operational efficiency, and enhance customer and user experiences.

StarHub had initially unveiled Low Latency Data Centre Connect in May, in partnership with Global Switch. The first point-of-presence (POP) was deployed to provide Global Switch customers in Singapore with secure, on-demand connectivity to a global network of key data centre ecosystems and submarine cable POPs. This foundational collaboration has facilitated seamless connectivity for Singapore-based businesses.

Since then, StarHub has expanded its network ecosystem, collaborating with Ciena, Digital Realty, and Terrabit Networks. This expansion utilises Ciena’s 800G encryption on Waveserver 5, enabling ultra-low latency connectivity across multiple data centres.

"With a flexible, scalable, and secure network foundation from Ciena, StarHub is able to provide its customers with unrivaled connectivity by way of its Data Centre Interconnect (DCI) service," said Matt Vesperman, Regional Managing Director for Asia Pacific, Ciena. "Ciena’s DCI solution provides inherent resistance to the threat of quantum computer attacks against key exchange algorithms."

Govind Choudhary, Vice President of Strategy & Business Development for Asia Pacific at Digital Realty, added, "This collaboration between StarHub and Digital Realty strengthens our Singapore campus as a strategic interconnection hub by providing customers with ultra-low latency connectivity to our strategically located data centres, ensuring optimal performance and reliability."

StarHub’s newly launched Low Latency Data Centre Connect service is set to leverage various technologies and strategic partnerships to deliver enhanced connectivity solutions, the company states. With plans for future growth and ongoing collaboration with industry leaders, StarHub aims to offer businesses greater flexibility, security, and scalability in navigating the digital landscape.