About the project

Supercomputing and AI systems designed for large language models can incorporate tens or hundreds of thousands of compute nodes. At the heart of these massive systems lies the interconnect, the backbone that dictates overall performance. For these systems to perform well, the interconnect must seamlessly scale alongside the high-end compute elements. This is where NET4EXA steps in: a project aimed at implementing the next generation of European interconnect technology, comprising both hardware (switches and network interfaces) and matching software. The solution’s capabilities will be proven through a fully operational pilot system.

Building on the success of BXI, Europe’s production-proven interconnect, NET4EXA harnesses European innovations and has strong ties with related EU-funded projects.

Consortium

The project is powered by a cohesive consortium of eight partners, each bringing unique expertise. By striking a balance between industry and academia, NET4EXA ensures that cutting-edge R&D from Europe’s top institutions is integrated into the BXI portfolio. This synergy not only builds a robust technical ecosystem and helps cover diverse use cases, but also paves the way for the BXI technology to enter the market competitively and cost-effectively, with scientifically validated performance.

France

Coordinator, leader of work package 1: Architecture, and post-exascale preparation

France

Technical coordinator, leader of work packages 3 (Fabric management & scalability), 6 (IP management, exploitation & communication) & 7 (Project management)

Norway

Leader of work package 2: Communication performance and offload

Greece

Leader of work package 4: HPC and AI software ecosystem

Italy

Leader of work package 5: Integration, pilot, evaluation

Italy

Affiliated entity of CINECA

Italy

Affiliated entity of CINECA

Italy

Affiliated entity of CINECA