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“Today, I’m having a conversation with Gary Smith, the CEO of the networking company Ciena. While Ciena might not be a household name, every internet user has unknowingly relied on their products. Ciena is responsible for creating the hardware and software that power the fiber optic cables connecting the world. From local broadband networks to massive undersea cables, Ciena is everywhere, even playing a role in delivering this very podcast you’re listening to.
Gary Smith’s journey with Ciena began in 1997 during a successful IPO, followed by becoming CEO in 2001 after the dotcom crash. He has witnessed the internet’s evolution firsthand, with Ciena being a key player every step of the way, from the early days of telecoms to the current era of cloud computing and generative AI.
In this interview, we delve into Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM), the innovative technology that Ciena is built upon. WDM allows more data to be transmitted on a single fiber optic cable by using multiple light wavelengths, essentially ‘virtualizing’ the cable. This technology is crucial as internet usage grows, especially with data-heavy applications like streaming and AI.
Ciena was the first to commercialize WDM in the ’90s, positioning them at the forefront of high-speed connectivity technology. We discuss how Gary is investing in pushing this technology forward and what future disruptions he anticipates.
Additionally, we explore Ciena’s customer base, which has shifted from telecom providers to cloud computing giants like Meta, Google, and Microsoft. As the internet landscape fractures based on geographical and governmental factors, Ciena plays a pivotal role in ensuring global connectivity.
Ultimately, Ciena’s work underpins the backbone of the internet, making it a hidden yet essential force in the digital world. Gary Smith’s insights shed light on Ciena’s role in shaping the future of high-speed connectivity and the evolving internet landscape.”