Internet2 increased to 100 gigabits per second

Until recently, the Internet2 had a theoretical limit of 10 gigabits per second, which is thousands of times faster than standard home broadband connections. By sending data using 10 different colors, or wavelengths, of light over a single cable, operators are boosting the network's capacity to 100 Gbps.

Internet2 already is planning future expansion. By adding certain equipment, Van Houweling said, the network can easily boost capacity another fourfold to 400 Gbps - something likely to begin in 12 to 18 months.