Which type of PON access architecture replaced APON?

GPON, or Gigabit Passive Optical Network, is the type of PON (Passive Optical Network) access architecture that replaced APON (Asynchronous Passive Optical Network). The main reason GPON succeeded APON is due to its superior data transmission capabilities. It supports higher bandwidths and can provide faster data rates, up to 2.5 Gbps downstream and 1.25 Gbps upstream, which is essential for meeting the increasing demand for high-speed internet services.

Furthermore, GPON uses a more efficient technology for data encapsulation — it implements the GEM (Gigabit Ethernet Multi-point) encapsulation method, which allows for more flexible and efficient use of bandwidth. This advancement helps service providers deliver multiple services, such as voice, video, and data, over a single fiber link, enhancing the overall user experience.

In contrast, the other options, such as EPON (Ethernet PON), BPON (Broadband PON), and 10GPON, either represent different architectures that were developed for specific purposes or are evolutions that serve different markets but did not directly replace APON. GPON's ability to meet higher bandwidth needs significantly contributes to its predominance in modern fiber optic services.