The Challenge: Proving the Power of Ethernet for AI Supercomputing 

Traditionally, high-performance computing (HPC) and large-scale LLM (Large Language Model) development required vendor-specific, closed protocols like InfiniBand. Sakura Internet sought to move beyond this vendor lock-in by using high-speed, transparent Ethernet technology that could integrate seamlessly with their existing Linux-based cloud infrastructure. 

Strategic Partnership: Macnica and Edgecore Joint Verification* 

The success of Sakura ONE was driven by a three-way collaboration between Sakura Internet, Macnica, and Edgecore Networks. Together, they delivered a disaggregated networking fabric that combined cutting-edge hardware with robust, local technical support: 

• High-Density 800GbE Switching: Sakura Internet deployed 26 Edgecore 800G switches (powered by Broadcom Tomahawk 5) to handle the massive data throughput required for an 800-GPU cluster. 

• Enterprise SONiC Distribution: By choosing Enterprise SONiC, Sakura Internet gained the stability and rapid troubleshooting required for commercial services, moving beyond the limitations of community-only editions. 

• Expert Coordination & Verification: Macnica provided critical on-the-ground support, from proactive performance verification to deep-level troubleshooting. Their real-time coordination with Edgecore’s R&D staff ensured that technical requirements were met with unmatched speed and precision. 

The Results: Unprecedented Speed-to-Market 

By leveraging Edgecore’s open networking solutions and Macnica’s expert technical coordination, Sakura Internet overcame what was previously considered an unprecedented challenge: 

• 4-Month Deployment: Shrunk a typical two-year supercomputer build-out into just four months. 

• Top 50 Ranking: Proved that Ethernet and SONiC are ready for the world’s most demanding AI training workloads. 

• TCO Optimization: Significantly reduced hardware costs while gaining the strategic flexibility to scale to 1.6T and beyond. 

* Macnica is Edgecore’s authorized distributor in Japan, providing specialized technical support and system verification.