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    Dark Fiber Market

    ID: MRFR/ICT/9034-HCR
    100 Pages
    Ankit Gupta
    October 2025

    Dark Fiber Market Research Report Information by Fiber Type (Single Mode, Multi-mode), By Network Type (Metro, Long-haul), By Application (Telecom, Oil & Gas, BFSI, Medical, Railway), By Region (Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, and Rest of the World) - Forecast till 2035.

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    Dark Fiber Market Infographic
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    Dark Fiber Market Summary

    As per Market Research Future Analysis, the Dark Fiber Market was valued at USD 6.90 Billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to USD 16.76 Billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 8.40% from 2025 to 2035. The growth is driven by increasing demand for internet bandwidth and the rollout of 5G networks, which require enhanced connectivity. Dark fiber offers a cost-effective solution for organizations to expand their network capacity without new installations, making it a preferred choice for telecom and network service providers.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    The demand for dark fiber is surging due to the need for high-speed connectivity and the expansion of 5G networks.

    • Dark Fiber Market Size in 2024: USD 6.90 Billion.
    • Projected Market Size by 2035: USD 16.76 Billion.
    • CAGR from 2025 to 2035: 8.40%.
    • 5G technology is a significant driver for dark fiber demand.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2024 Market Size USD 6.90 Billion
    2035 Market Size USD 16.76 Billion

    Major Players

    Key players include GTT Communications, Landmark Dividend LLC, Unite Private Networks, Consolidated Communications, Crown Castle, NexGen Networks, Sorrento Networks, FirstLight, and Windstream Intellectual Property Services, LLC.

    Dark Fiber Market Trends

    Dark Fiber demand is increasing due to need of better connectivity.

    The demand for dark fiber is indeed increasing due to the rollout of 5G networks. 5G technology requires a significant increase in the number of cell towers and other network infrastructure, and this requires a high-speed and reliable connection between these towers and the core network. In addition to cost-effectiveness, dark fiber is easy to access, as it is typically available in urban areas where fiber optic infrastructure has already been installed. This makes it a convenient option for organizations seeking to expand their network capacity without the need to invest in the installation of new fiber optic cables.

    Dark fiber is a cost-effective and efficient way to provide this connectivity, as it can provide the necessary bandwidth and low-latency connectivity required for 5G networks. With dark fiber, network operators can have greater control over their network infrastructure and the bandwidth they require and can avoid the potential slowdowns and security risks associated with sharing a public network.

    In addition, 5G networks are expected to drive the growth of new technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and autonomous vehicles, all of which require fast and reliable connectivity. Dark fiber can provide the necessary bandwidth and low-latency connectivity to support these technologies, making it an important part of the 5G infrastructure.

    Overall, the demand for dark fiber is increasing due to the need for high-speed and reliable connectivity to support the growth of 5G networks and the technologies that rely on them.

     

    The adoption of cutting-edge networking systems supported by research institutes and the increasing demand for fiber networks in ISPs and telecommunications are also anticipated to fuel market revenue development in the Asia-Pacific region.

    The expansion of digital infrastructure and increasing demand for high-speed connectivity are driving the growth of the dark fiber market, as organizations seek to enhance their network capabilities and ensure future scalability.

    U.S. Department of Commerce

    Dark Fiber Market Drivers

    Emergence of Smart Cities

    The emergence of smart cities is a pivotal driver for the Global Dark Fiber Market Industry. As urban areas evolve into smart ecosystems, the need for advanced communication networks becomes increasingly critical. Dark fiber infrastructure supports the vast data requirements of smart city applications, including traffic management, public safety, and environmental monitoring. Governments are recognizing the importance of investing in fiber optic networks to facilitate these initiatives. The anticipated growth of the market, with a CAGR of 8.46% from 2025 to 2035, underscores the potential of dark fiber to enable the connectivity required for smart city development, thereby enhancing urban living.

    Growing Demand for Data Security

    The growing demand for data security is a significant factor influencing the Global Dark Fiber Market Industry. Organizations are increasingly concerned about data breaches and cyber threats, prompting them to seek secure communication channels. Dark fiber offers a private and dedicated network, reducing the risk of unauthorized access and enhancing data protection. This trend is particularly relevant for sectors such as finance and healthcare, where data integrity is paramount. As businesses prioritize security in their operations, the demand for dark fiber solutions is expected to rise, contributing to the market's growth trajectory. The increasing focus on cybersecurity is likely to drive investments in dark fiber infrastructure.

    Increased Adoption of Cloud Computing

    The Global Dark Fiber Market Industry is significantly influenced by the increased adoption of cloud computing services. Organizations are migrating their operations to cloud platforms, necessitating high-capacity data transmission capabilities. Dark fiber provides a dedicated and scalable solution, enabling businesses to efficiently manage their data traffic. As enterprises seek to optimize their cloud strategies, the demand for dark fiber connectivity is expected to rise. This trend aligns with the market's projected growth, with estimates suggesting a rise from 6.9 USD Billion in 2024 to 16.9 USD Billion by 2035. The ability of dark fiber to support high-speed, low-latency connections makes it an attractive choice for cloud service providers.

    Market Growth Projections (Charts Only)

    Rising Demand for High-Speed Connectivity

    The Global Dark Fiber Market Industry experiences a notable surge in demand for high-speed connectivity solutions. As businesses and consumers increasingly rely on data-intensive applications, the need for robust infrastructure becomes paramount. Dark fiber offers an attractive solution, providing the necessary bandwidth without the limitations of traditional networks. In 2024, the market is projected to reach 6.9 USD Billion, reflecting the growing recognition of dark fiber as a viable option for enhancing connectivity. This trend is likely to continue, with the market expected to expand significantly by 2035, potentially reaching 16.9 USD Billion, driven by the increasing adoption of cloud services and IoT applications.

    Expansion of Telecommunications Infrastructure

    The expansion of telecommunications infrastructure plays a crucial role in the growth of the Global Dark Fiber Market Industry. Governments and private entities are investing heavily in fiber optic networks to meet the escalating demand for high-speed internet access. This investment is particularly evident in urban areas, where the proliferation of smart technologies necessitates enhanced connectivity. As a result, dark fiber networks are being deployed to support the increasing data traffic. The anticipated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.46% from 2025 to 2035 indicates a robust market trajectory, as stakeholders recognize the strategic importance of dark fiber in future-proofing their networks.

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    The massive number of workers, who adapted to the new home-based, remote working environments, raised the demand for high-speed network connectivity. Also, due to the enormous number of people staying at home during the pandemic, demand for OTT platforms peaked. On the other hand, telecom, and network service provider embraced dark fibers fast to increase their connectivity options.

    Major players in the dark fiber market, including GTT Communications, Inc., Landmark Dividend LLC., Unite Private Networks, Consolidated Communications, Crown Castle, NexGen Networks, Sorrento Networks, FirstLight, and Windstream Intellectual Property Services, LLC., and others are focusing on developing their business strategies.

    Key Companies in the Dark Fiber Market market include

    Industry Developments

    • Q2 2024: Zayo Group to Expand Dark Fiber Network in Texas with New Route Zayo Group announced the launch of a new dark fiber route in Texas, expanding its network to support growing demand from data centers and enterprise customers in the region.
    • Q2 2024: Crown Castle Announces Completion of Major Dark Fiber Expansion in Phoenix Crown Castle completed a significant dark fiber network expansion in Phoenix, Arizona, aimed at supporting 5G deployments and enterprise connectivity.
    • Q3 2024: Lumen Technologies Secures Multi-Year Dark Fiber Contract with U.S. Federal Agency Lumen Technologies announced it has been awarded a multi-year contract to provide dark fiber infrastructure to a major U.S. federal agency, enhancing secure government communications.
    • Q3 2024: euNetworks Acquires Onstage Online to Expand Dark Fiber Footprint in Austria euNetworks completed the acquisition of Onstage Online GmbH, strengthening its dark fiber network presence in Austria and Central Europe.
    • Q4 2024: Aqua Comms Launches New Transatlantic Dark Fiber Route Connecting New York and Dublin Aqua Comms announced the launch of a new transatlantic dark fiber route, providing high-capacity, low-latency connectivity between New York and Dublin for hyperscale and enterprise customers.
    • Q4 2024: Colt Technology Services Partners with Equinix to Deliver Dark Fiber Solutions Across Europe Colt Technology Services entered a partnership with Equinix to provide dark fiber connectivity between key data centers in major European cities.
    • Q1 2025: Consolidated Communications Expands Dark Fiber Network in Chicago Metro Area Consolidated Communications announced the expansion of its dark fiber network in the Chicago metropolitan area, targeting enterprise and carrier customers.
    • Q1 2025: Zayo Group Announces New Dark Fiber Route Connecting Atlanta and Miami Zayo Group launched a new long-haul dark fiber route connecting Atlanta and Miami, enhancing connectivity options for cloud and content providers.
    • Q2 2025: EXA Infrastructure Acquires Dark Fiber Assets from FiberLight in Strategic U.S. Expansion EXA Infrastructure acquired dark fiber assets from FiberLight, expanding its U.S. network footprint and strengthening its position in the North American market.
    • Q2 2025: Verizon Business Wins Major Dark Fiber Contract with Fortune 100 Retailer Verizon Business secured a multi-year contract to provide dark fiber connectivity to a leading Fortune 100 retailer, supporting its digital transformation initiatives.
    • Q2 2025: PacketFabric Raises $150M to Accelerate Dark Fiber Network Expansion PacketFabric closed a $150 million funding round to accelerate the expansion of its dark fiber network infrastructure across North America and Europe.
    • Q2 2025: FirstLight Opens New Dark Fiber Route Connecting Boston and Montreal FirstLight announced the opening of a new dark fiber route between Boston and Montreal, enhancing cross-border connectivity for enterprise and carrier customers.

    Future Outlook

    Dark Fiber Market Future Outlook

    The Global Dark Fiber Market is projected to grow at 8.40% CAGR from 2025 to 2035, driven by increasing demand for high-speed connectivity and data security.

    New opportunities lie in:

    • Invest in expanding fiber optic networks to underserved regions. Develop innovative solutions for enterprise data management using dark fiber. Leverage partnerships with cloud service providers to enhance service offerings.

    By 2035, the Dark Fiber Market is expected to be robust, reflecting substantial growth and innovation.

    Market Segmentation

    Dark Fiber Network Outlook

    • Metro
    • Long-Haul

    Dark Fiber Regional Outlook

    • {""=>["US"
    • "Canada"]}
    • {""=>["Germany"
    • "France"
    • "UK"
    • "Italy"
    • "Spain"
    • "Rest of Europe"]}
    • {""=>["China"
    • "Japan"
    • "India"
    • "Australia"
    • "South Korea"
    • "Rest of Asia-Pacific"]}
    • {""=>["Middle East"
    • "Africa"
    • "Latin America"]}

    Dark Fiber Application Outlook

    • Telecom
    • Oil & Gas
    • BFSI
    • Military & Defense
    • Medical
    • Railway
    • Others

    Dark Fiber Vertical Product Outlook

    • Single-Mode
    • Multi-Mode

    Report Scope

    Report Attribute/MetricDetails
    Market Size 2024USD 6.90 Billion
    Market Size 203516.76
    Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)8.40% (2025 - 2035)
    Base Year2024
    Forecast Period2025 - 2035
    Historical Data2020 to 2023
    Forecast UnitsValue (USD Billion)
    Report CoverageRevenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
    Segments CoveredProduct Type, Network Type, Application Type, and Region
    Geographies CoveredNorth America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World
    Countries CoveredThe U.S, Canada, Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil
    Key Companies ProfiledGTT Communications, Inc., Landmark Dividend LLC. Unite Private Networks, Consolidated Communications, Crown Castle, NexGen Networks, Sorrento Networks, FirstLight, and Windstream Intellectual Property Services, LLC.
    Key Market OpportunitiesBig Data promotes better product designs by utilizing technologies at lower costs and with less hardware.
    Key Market DynamicsIncreasing demand due to cost effectiveness. 5G market growth and high-speed connectivity growth increase demand
    Market Size 20257.48

    Market Highlights

    Author
    Ankit Gupta
    Senior Research Analyst

    Ankit Gupta is an analyst in market research industry in ICT and SEMI industry. With post-graduation in "Telecom and Marketing Management" and graduation in "Electronics and Telecommunication" vertical he is well versed with recent development in ICT industry as a whole. Having worked on more than 150+ reports including consultation for fortune 500 companies such as Microsoft and Rio Tinto in identifying solutions with respect to business problems his opinions are inclined towards mixture of technical and managerial aspects.

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    FAQs

    What is the projected size of the dark fiber market by 2032?

    The fiber dark market size is estimated to reach USD 13.23 billion by 2032.

    How much is the Dark Fiber market?

    The market for Dark Fiber was USD 6.3 Billion in 2023.

    What is the market size for 2032 for the global Dark Fiber market?

    The global Dark Fiber market is expected to be USD 13.23 Billion in 2032.

    What is the growth rate of the Dark Fiber market?

    The growth rate for the Dark Fiber market is 8.40% through the forecast period.

    Which region held the largest market share in the Dark Fiber market?

    At present, the North America region holds largest market share.

    Who are the prominent players in the Dark Fiber market?

    The major players are dominating the market are GTT Communications, Inc., Landmark Dividend LLC. Unite Private Networks, Consolidated Communications, Crown Castle, NexGen Networks, Sorrento Networks, FirstLight, and Windstream Intellectual Property Services, LLC., and others.

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