What is Layer 1 encryption?
Protection at the physical transmission layer
Layer 1 encryption secures data on the physical transmission layer of the OSI model. The data stream is encrypted directly at the wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) layer before it leaves the node. OTNsec WDM provides Layer 1 security for optical networks, blocking eavesdropping and tampering along the fiber route while ensuring the ultra-low latency crucial for performance-sensitive and mission-critical systems.
Maximum security encryption with no performance loss
Layer 1 encryption safeguards the entire bitstream – including metadata – at the fiber level, delivering transparent, zero-latency security without impacting throughput.
Layer 1 encryption secures every bit on the fiber, delivering zero‑latency security with maximum performance.
Does Layer 1 encryption prevent data harvesting attempts?
Fiber-optic encryption provides strong protection, ensuring that data stays secure even if the transmission medium is physically compromised.
How Layer 1 encryption works
OTNsec WDM encryption embeds cryptographic mechanisms into the optical transport network (OTN). Data packets are secured at the WDM layer in real time using symmetric encryption algorithms without being processed at higher network layers. The approach is transparent to network devices and applications, requires no changes at the IP or transport layer, and integrates with zero-touch provisioning and orchestration systems. This allows seamless deployment into existing networks while maintaining top-tier security and scalability.
Scalable, low-latency encryption for fiber networks
Layer 1 encryption is ideal for large, distributed infrastructure where data security and network performance are mission-critical.
Why Layer 1 encryption is essential for fiber network security
Adva Network Security’s NIST-certified and BSI-approved Layer 1 encryption solutions shield data on the fiber from the moment it leaves the node, closing the gap before higher-layer defenses engage. With our ConnectGuard™ technology, telecom operators, data centers, critical infrastructure providers and government institutions gain maximum protection with minimal operational overhead, ensuring fiber links remain secure, high-performing and scalable.
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