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Dark Fiber Market By Type (Single-mode Fiber, Multi-mode Fiber (Graded-Index, Step-index)), By Material (Plastic, Glass), By Network Type (Metro, Long Haul), By End Use Industry (IT, Military & Aerospace, Oil & Gas, Telecommunication, BFSI, Healthcare), and by Region; Global Insights & Forecast (2024 – 2030)

Published: December, 2024  
|   Report ID: SE3654  
|   Semiconductor and Electronics

As per Intent Market Research, the Dark Fiber Market was valued at USD 6.4 billion in 2023 and will surpass USD 12.5 billion by 2030; growing at a CAGR of 10.0% during 2024 - 2030.

The dark fiber market, currently witnessing significant growth, is driven by increasing demand for high-speed data transmission and growing reliance on cloud computing, data centers, and network services. Dark fiber refers to unused optical fibers that are leased or sold to businesses for private network communication. These fibers are called "dark" because they are not yet activated or "lit" by the data signals running through them. This market is seeing significant traction as organizations across various industries focus on enhancing bandwidth, reducing latency, and ensuring data security through dedicated, scalable networking solutions.

Single-Mode Fiber Segment is the Largest Owing to Widespread Deployment in Long-Haul Networks

Among the different fiber types in the dark fiber market, the single-mode fiber segment holds the largest share, primarily due to its extensive use in long-distance communication networks and high-capacity data transmission. Single-mode fibers are favored for their ability to support long-haul communications with minimal signal loss, making them ideal for metropolitan and intercontinental fiber optic networks. These fibers provide a narrow light path, which reduces attenuation and enhances performance, making them essential for telecom operators, data centers, and cloud service providers.

The dominance of single-mode fibers is also linked to the ongoing demand for higher bandwidth, particularly in urban and densely populated areas where reliable high-speed connectivity is crucial. Their widespread deployment in telecom and internet backbone networks ensures that this subsegment will maintain its leading position throughout the forecast period. With advancements in 5G technology and increased adoption of IoT (Internet of Things) applications, the single-mode fiber market will continue to expand, contributing significantly to the overall growth of the dark fiber industry.

Metro Network Segment is the Fastest Growing Owing to Increasing Urban Data Demands

In terms of network types, the metro network segment is emerging as the fastest-growing subsegment in the dark fiber market. Metro networks are essential for connecting enterprise data centers, internet exchanges, and cloud services within urban and suburban areas. The exponential increase in data traffic in cities, driven by the rapid adoption of digital services, is pushing telecom operators and internet service providers (ISPs) to expand their metro fiber infrastructures.

The fast growth in this subsegment can be attributed to the rising need for scalable and high-speed connectivity solutions within metropolitan areas, where data consumption is highest due to increasing use of video streaming, online gaming, and cloud-based applications. Companies are increasingly opting for dark fiber solutions in metro areas to gain control over their networks, reduce costs, and ensure faster service delivery. As digital transformation accelerates across industries, the demand for metro dark fiber networks is expected to surge, supporting urban connectivity and enhancing operational efficiency for businesses.

Telecom Segment is the Largest Owing to Expanding Telecommunications Networks

Within the end-user verticals, the telecom segment is the largest in the dark fiber market, driven by the continuous expansion of telecommunications networks and the growing demand for reliable, high-capacity bandwidth. Telecom companies are at the forefront of leasing and utilizing dark fiber to enhance their network infrastructure and provide improved services to consumers and businesses. As these companies roll out 5G networks, they require a vast amount of optical fiber to support increased data speeds and connectivity, which further boosts the demand for dark fiber.

Telecom providers are leveraging dark fiber to build out their own network backbones, improve redundancy, and ensure scalability for future growth. The increasing reliance on data-intensive applications, cloud computing, and smart technologies has led telecom operators to invest heavily in fiber optic infrastructure, consolidating their position as the largest end-user segment. The continuous growth of broadband internet, mobile communications, and 5G deployments will fuel the expansion of dark fiber in the telecom sector, solidifying its dominance in the market.

Healthcare Segment is the Fastest Growing Owing to Rising Telemedicine and Data Security Needs

The healthcare segment is emerging as the fastest-growing subsegment in the dark fiber market, primarily due to the increasing reliance on telemedicine, remote monitoring, and electronic health records (EHR). Hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare institutions are opting for dark fiber networks to ensure secure, high-speed transmission of sensitive patient data, medical imaging, and real-time monitoring services. With the growing use of connected healthcare devices and the rising importance of patient data security and compliance, healthcare providers are investing in private fiber networks to mitigate the risks associated with cyber threats.

The surge in telemedicine services, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, has further driven the demand for dark fiber in healthcare. Healthcare organizations require robust network infrastructure to support high-definition video consultations, real-time data sharing, and cloud-based storage systems for medical records. As the healthcare industry continues to digitize and adopt more advanced technologies, the demand for dedicated, high-performance networks like dark fiber will accelerate, contributing to the rapid growth of this subsegment.

North America is the Largest Region Owing to Significant Investments in Fiber Infrastructure

North America leads the global dark fiber market, driven by substantial investments in fiber optic infrastructure by telecommunications companies, data center operators, and cloud service providers. The region has a well-established fiber optic network, and the increasing demand for faster internet speeds, cloud services, and 5G deployments is further fueling the market's growth. The United States, in particular, is witnessing significant growth in dark fiber adoption, as companies across various industries seek to enhance their network capabilities and control their data flow through private, dedicated fiber networks.

The presence of key market players, coupled with continuous advancements in communication technologies, is positioning North America as the largest regional market for dark fiber. Additionally, the proliferation of hyperscale data centers and increasing investments in smart city projects are expected to drive further growth in the region. With major tech hubs like Silicon Valley, the region's demand for dark fiber networks will continue to rise, supported by the expansion of 5G networks and growing data traffic.

Competitive Landscape: Top Companies Leading the Market

The dark fiber market is highly competitive, with key players focusing on expanding their network infrastructure, strategic partnerships, and mergers and acquisitions to strengthen their market position. The leading companies in the market include:

  1. Zayo Group Holdings, Inc.
  2. Crown Castle International Corp.
  3. AT&T Inc.
  4. Verizon Communications Inc.
  5. CenturyLink, Inc. (now Lumen Technologies)
  6. Comcast Corporation
  7. GTT Communications, Inc.
  8. Colt Technology Services Group Limited
  9. NTT Communications Corporation
  10. Consolidated Communications Holdings, Inc.

These companies are investing heavily in expanding their dark fiber networks to meet the growing demand for high-speed, scalable, and secure communication solutions. The competitive landscape is marked by strategic collaborations, as key players aim to expand their market presence by offering enhanced network services to customers. The rising demand for 5G, cloud computing, and IoT applications is likely to intensify competition, with companies focusing on innovation and regional expansion to maintain their leadership in the dark fiber market.

Dark Fiber Market size

Report Objectives:

The report will help you answer some of the most critical questions in the Dark Fiber Market. A few of them are as follows:

  1. What are the key drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges influencing the market growth?
  2. What are the prevailing technology trends in the dark fiber market?
  3. What is the size of the dark fiber market based on segments, sub-segments, and regions?
  4. What is the size of different market segments across key regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa?
  5. What are the market opportunities for stakeholders after analyzing key market trends?
  6. Who are the leading market players and what are their market share and core competencies?
  7. What is the degree of competition in the market and what are the key growth strategies adopted by leading players?
  8. What is the competitive landscape of the market, including market share analysis, revenue analysis, and a ranking of key players?

Report Scope:

Report Features

Description

Market Size (2023)

USD 6.4 billion

Forecasted Value (2030)

USD 12.5 billion

CAGR (2024 – 2030)

10.0%

Base Year for Estimation

2023

Historic Year

2022

Forecast Period

2024 – 2030

Report Coverage

Market Forecast, Market Dynamics, Competitive Landscape, Recent Developments

Segments Covered

Dark Fiber Market By Type (Single-mode Fiber, Multi-mode Fiber (Graded-Index, Step-index)), By Material (Plastic, Glass), By Network Type (Metro, Long Haul), By End Use Industry (IT, Military & Aerospace, Oil & Gas, Telecommunication, BFSI, Healthcare)

Regional Analysis

North America (US, Canada, Mexico), Europe (Germany, France, UK, Spain, Italy & Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, Japan, South Korea, India, and Rest of Asia Pacific), Latin America (Brazil, Argentina, & Rest of Latin America), Middle East & Africa (Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, & Rest of MEA)

Customization Scope

Customization for segments, region/country-level will be provided. Moreover, additional customization can be done based on the requirements

1.Introduction

1.1.Market Definition

1.2.Scope of the Study

1.3.Research Assumptions

1.4.Study Limitations

2.Research Methodology

2.1.Research Approach

2.1.1.Top-Down Method

2.1.2.Bottom-Up Method

2.1.3.Factor Impact Analysis

2.2.Insights & Data Collection Process

2.2.1.Secondary Research

2.2.2.Primary Research

2.3.Data Mining Process

2.3.1.Data Analysis

2.3.2.Data Validation and Revalidation

2.3.3.Data Triangulation

3.Executive Summary

3.1.Major Markets & Segments

3.2.Highest Growing Regions and Respective Countries

3.3.Impact of Growth Drivers & Inhibitors

3.4.Regulatory Overview by Country 

4.Dark Fiber Market, by Type (Market Size & Forecast: USD Million, 2022 – 2030)

4.1.Single-mode Fiber

4.2.Multi-mode Fiber

4.2.1.Graded-index Multimode Fiber

4.2.2.Step-index Multimode Fiber

5.Dark Fiber Market, by Material (Market Size & Forecast: USD Million, 2022 – 2030)

5.1.Glass

5.2.Plastic

6.Dark Fiber Market, by End Use Industry (Market Size & Forecast: USD Million, 2022 – 2030)

6.1.IT / ITES

6.2.Telecommunication

6.3.Oil and Gas

6.4.Military and Aerospace

6.5.BFSI

6.6.Healthcare

6.7.Railway

6.8.Others

7.Dark Fiber Market, by Network Type (Market Size & Forecast: USD Million, 2022 – 2030)

7.1.Metro

7.2.Long Haul

8.Regional Analysis (Market Size & Forecast: USD Million, 2022 – 2030)

8.1.Regional Overview

8.2.North America

8.2.1.Regional Trends & Growth Drivers

8.2.2.Barriers & Challenges

8.2.3.Opportunities

8.2.4.Factor Impact Analysis

8.2.5.Technology Trends

8.2.6.North America Dark Fiber Market, by Type

8.2.7.North America Dark Fiber Market, by Material

8.2.8.North America Dark Fiber Market, by End Use Industry

8.2.9.North America Dark Fiber Market, by Network Type

             *Similar segmentation will be provided at each regional level

8.3.By Country

8.3.1.US

8.3.1.1.US Dark Fiber Market, by Type

8.3.1.2.US Dark Fiber Market, by Material

8.3.1.3.US Dark Fiber Market, by End Use Industry

8.3.1.4.US Dark Fiber Market, by Network Type

8.3.2.Canada

8.3.3.Mexico

                      *Similar segmentation will be provided at each country level

8.4.Europe

8.5.APAC

8.6.Latin America

8.7.Middle East & Africa

9.Competitive Landscape

9.1.Overview of the Key Players

9.2.Competitive Ecosystem

9.2.1.Platform Manufacturers

9.2.2.Subsystem Manufacturers

9.2.3.Service Providers

9.2.4.Software Providers

9.3.Company Share Analysis

9.4.Company Benchmarking Matrix

9.4.1.Strategic Overview

9.4.2.Product Innovations

9.5.Start-up Ecosystem

9.6.Strategic Competitive Insights/ Customer Imperatives

9.7.ESG Matrix/ Sustainability Matrix

9.8.Manufacturing Network

9.8.1.Locations

9.8.2.Supply Chain and Logistics

9.8.3.Product Flexibility/Customization

9.8.4.Digital Transformation and Connectivity

9.8.5.Environmental and Regulatory Compliance

9.9.Technology Readiness Level Matrix

9.10.Technology Maturity Curve

9.11.Buying Criteria

10.Company Profiles

10.1.Zayo Group

10.1.1.Company Overview

10.1.2.Company Financials

10.1.3.Product/Service Portfolio

10.1.4.Recent Developments

10.1.5.IMR Analysis

             *Similar information will be provided for other companies 

10.2.Verizon Communications

10.3.CenturyLink (Lumen Technologies)

10.4.EXA Infrastructure (GTT Communications)

10.5.AT&T

10.6.Consolidated Communications

10.7.Cologix

10.8.Colt Technology Services

10.9.Comcast

10.10.NTT Communications

11.Appendix

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A comprehensive market research approach was employed to gather and analyze data on the Dark Fiber Market. In the process, the analysis was also done to estimate the parent market and relevant adjacencies to measure the impact of them on the dark fiber market. The research methodology encompassed both secondary and primary research techniques, ensuring the accuracy and credibility of the findings.

Research Approach - Dark Fiber Market

Secondary Research

Secondary research involved a thorough review of pertinent industry reports, journals, articles, and publications. Additionally, annual reports, press releases, and investor presentations of industry players were scrutinized to gain insights into their market positioning and strategies.

Primary Research

Primary research involved conducting in-depth interviews with industry experts, stakeholders, and market participants across the dark fiber ecosystem. The primary research objectives included:

  • Validating findings and assumptions derived from secondary research
  • Gathering qualitative and quantitative data on market trends, drivers, and challenges
  • Understanding the demand-side dynamics, encompassing end-users, component manufacturers, facility providers, and service providers
  • Assessing the supply-side landscape, including technological advancements and recent developments

Market Size Estimation

A combination of top-down and bottom-up approaches was utilized to estimate the overall size of the dark fiber market. These methods were also employed to estimate the size of various subsegments within the market. The market size estimation methodology encompassed the following steps:

  1. Identification of key industry players and relevant revenues through extensive secondary research
  2. Determination of the industry's supply chain and market size, in terms of value, through primary and secondary research processes
  3. Calculation of percentage shares, splits, and breakdowns using secondary sources and verification through primary sources

Bottom Up and Top Down - Dark Fiber Market

Data Triangulation

To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the market size estimates, data triangulation was implemented. This involved cross-referencing data from various sources, including demand and supply side factors, market trends, and expert opinions. Additionally, top-down and bottom-up approaches were employed to validate the market size estimates.

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