Network Research Institute

Messege from Director General

Director General
Masugi Inoue

Beyond Connectivity: Networks that Interweave to Create Value

The term “network” derives from “net” and “work,” signifying not merely a connection but a mechanism in which an interwoven structure generates value. True to its meaning, an information and communications network is a foundation—a social system, so to speak—that connects people, things, and information, bringing new functions and value to society. Network Research Institute is engaged in research and development to pioneer the future of this field.
Under the Sixth Medium- to Long-Term Goals and Plan—a five-year initiative launched in fiscal year 2026—our institute is responsible for the innovative networks sector. Building on the technologies we have cultivated to date, we are conducting research and development on five core technologies aimed at realizing sustainable and resilient future information and communication networks that connect everything from the ground to space with high speed and reliability.
Our institute is committed to research and development, as well as contributing our findings back to society, while actively collaborating with universities, companies, and research institutions both in Japan and abroad. We sincerely look forward to hearing from those interested in our research and the practical application of our technologies, as well as to the participation of researchers who wish to take on the challenge of future network research with fresh ideas.
We ask for your continued support and cooperation as we strive to fully unlock the true potential of networks and create an evolving infrastructure.

About Us

To enable connectivity from the ground to space, realize high-speed and reliable data transmission, and contribute to a sustainable, resilient, safe, and comfortable society, we undertake research and development in the following priority areas of fundamental network technologies, with the aim of disseminating research outcomes and promoting their implementation in society.

•Network Architecture Technology
•Photonic Network Infrastructure Technology
•Optical-Radio Fusion Access Infrastructure Technology
•Next-Generation Wireless Technology
•Space Communication Infrastructure Technology

Our Research

Network Architecture Technology

Network Architecture Laboratory

In the area of "Network Architecture Technology", we aim to integrate communications, computing, and AI to enable the automatic configuration of highly reliable wide-area networks, while allowing network functions to be flexibly maintained and expanded.

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Photonics Network Infrastructure Technology

Optical-Radio Fusion Access Infrastructure Technology

Photonic ICT Research Center

In the area of “Photonics Network Infrastructure Technology”, we are developing fundamental technologies to enable high-capacity communication using various laser-based links, including optical fiber propagation and free-space optical beams.
In the area of “Optical-Radio Fusion Access Infrastructure Technology”, we conduct research and development of opto-electronic devices and seamless communication technologies that optimally combine optical and wireless resources.

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Next-generation wireless technology
Space communication infrastructure technology

Wireless Networks Research Center

In the area of "Next-generation wireless technology", we aim to build the foundation for future wireless systems that combine high efficiency and reliability by making smart, waste-free use of limited spectrum resources to meet diverse needs.
In the area of "Space communication infrastructure technology", we aim to enhance the scalability and high-speed capabilities of wide-area networks extending from Earth to space, and to ensure uninterrupted communications anytime, anywhere.

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