Broadband service deployment has historically been limited in rural communities, creating challenges for residents, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rural utilities can fill the void, but they need to modernize their networks so they can support both internal smart grid and external broadband services. To do this, they need a solution that is scalable, has the ability to support multiple services, and can ensure their mission-critical teleprotection services remain secure and are carried at the highest QoS. Ciena can help.