What was the biggest technical challenge at the time?
Getting upstream connections with higher bandwidth in Nuremberg.

If you compare the backbone from 2006 with today’s, what is the biggest difference?
The size of the network has changed completely. In the past, there was only a network in Nuremberg. The first expansion steps extended it to Frankfurt and Munich. After that, the network was gradually expanded into what it is today.

Which technical development fascinated you the most personally?
Leasing our own dark fiber and operating our own DWDM systems on those routes. The first route was Nuremberg to Frankfurt with two repeaters. Beyond that, the first 100G links and the fact that we were the first carrier to deploy 400G links at DE-CIX and LINX.

Which upgrade or expansion are you particularly proud of, and why?
Every time a technological leap is made. First 100G port, first 400G port, or when bringing our own DWDM systems into operation.

What has kept the team strong over 20 years?
Short paths, speed, innovation, staying up to date with technology, and strong team cohesion.

How has the work in the NOC or within the network team changed over time?
Work has been distributed across more people and divided into specialized areas. Over time, tools have been introduced, and even developed in-house, that make everyday work much easier and save a lot of time.

What makes working at Core-Backbone special?
Despite having a relatively small team, we have built a large network with many satisfied customers.

What does it mean to you to have been there from the very beginning?
I turned my hobby and interests into my profession.

Are there nights you will never forget?
Very many 😀

Why have you stayed all these years?
Because I can still fully realize my ideas and ambitions in my areas of responsibility.