Top Dark Fiber Companies

The global dark fiber market outlook is highly competitive, with key players including Zayo Group, Lumen Technologies, AT&T, Colt Technology Services, and Verizon. Zayo focuses on expanding metro networks and long-haul routes for hyperscalers. Lumen invests in AI-optimized fiber infrastructure, while Colt emphasizes pan-European dark fiber coverage. These companies adopt strategies like acquisitions, network densification, and partnerships with data center operators to meet rising demand for scalable, high-speed connectivity.

As per the global dark fiber industry analysis, startups have emerged to disrupt the industry by addressing gaps left by traditional carriers. These agile companies focus on underserved regions, open-access models, and AI-driven infrastructure. Leveraging private equity and government partnerships, they build cost-efficient, scalable metro and long-haul fiber networks. Their innovations in automation, community broadband, and cloud-ready connectivity are accelerating deployment, enhancing flexibility, and reshaping the competitive landscape in both developed and emerging economies.

• Founded in 2021, Underline is a U.S.-based startup redefining open-access dark fiber infrastructure. Founded in 2021, it builds community-owned networks that offer wholesale leasing to multiple ISPs. Its flagship project in Colorado Springs includes 400 miles of fiber serving 55,000+ locations. One key innovation is its platform integrating fiber infrastructure with digital services like smart water and power grids. By aligning public-private funding, Underline is transforming dark fiber into inclusive, utility-grade infrastructure for underserved urban markets.

• Established in 2023, Neysa is an Indian startup focused on building intelligent infrastructure for AI and cloud ecosystems. Backed by industry veteran Sharad Sanghi, Neysa offers high-performance dark fiber tailored to hyperscale and enterprise AI workloads. A key solution is its vertically integrated fiber and edge-cloud platform, enhancing speed and reliability. Its breakthrough lies in AI-optimized routing and predictive network management—crucial for India’s evolving digital infrastructure and rapidly growing demand for low-latency data transport.

Top Player’s Company Profiles

• Zayo Group (USA)

• Lumen Technologies (USA)

• AT&T Inc. (USA)

• Verizon Communications Inc. (USA)

• Crown Castle Inc. (USA)

• Colt Technology Services (United Kingdom)

• euNetworks (Germany)

• BT Group plc (United Kingdom)

• Vodafone Group plc (United Kingdom)

• Orange S.A. (France)

• Deutsche Telekom AG (Germany)

• NTT Communications Corporation (Japan)

• China Telecom Corporation Limited (China)

• Tata Communications (India)

• Telstra Corporation Limited (Australia)