Science Information NETwork (SINET) is an information and communication network built and operated by the National Institute of Informatics (NII) as scientific information infrastructure for universities and research institutions throughout Japan.
With nodes (network connection points) across Japan, SINET is provided to universities and research institutions in order to support community-building among the numerous people involved in research and education, and to encourage wide distribution of scientific information.
SINET is also interconnected with many research networks overseas, including Internet2 in the U.S. and GÉANT in Europe, to facilitate the circulation of research information between countries that is vital for advanced international research projects.
In April 2022, NII commenced full-scale operation of SINET6, an upgrade of SINET5, the previous version of its scientific information infrastructure.
SINET provides about 1000 universities and research institutions with high-level scientific information infrastructure by connecting them organically with a nationwide 400Gbps network, one of the fastest in the world.
Six Concepts and Features of SINET6
Ultra-high speed
In line with growing demand for research and educational data, the connection speed was increased from the conventional 100 Gbps across the country to one of the world’s leading levels of 400 Gbps. SINET6 serves as network infrastructure featuring ultra high speed and stability.
Seamless & Smoothness
We have stated to operate 20 additional node (network connection points) in order to connect SINET more easily.
SINET6 supports stress-free research and education.
High availability connections
Mobile SINET helps to expand research and educational fields by connecting securely to the SINET 400Gbps network over public 5G networks.
Flexibility & Multi-functionality
In addition to the control and management functions based on network functions virtualization (NFV) technologies, edge servers have been set up at 11 locations.
That has opened the way for designing close and flexible services for enhancing convenience for users.
Internationality
SINET6 has international connection with 400Gbps Japan-Amsterdam lines, 200Gbps Japan-U.S. lines and there are now 100Gbps connections to both Singapore and Guam.
In April 2024, we upgraded Japan-Amsterdam lines from 100Gbps to 400Gbps. Our broadband lines will enhance support for international joint projects.
Integrated Platform for Open Science
SINET facilitates the secure utilization of cloud, academic content and research data and supports the construction of highly functional research and education environments.
To advance open science that can benefit all academic disciplines, SINET will accelerate its integration with research databases.
