Lumen Technologies Inc. ( LUMN ) shares are trading higher on Wednesday after announcing a strategic partnership with Alphabet Inc.’s (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Google Cloud.

The collaboration was unveiled at the Next 25 event and is geared toward bolstering cloud and network capabilities in the era of artificial intelligence.

The effort aims to accelerate digital transformation as companies adopt AI-powered solutions at scale, per a press release.

A cornerstone of this alliance includes integrating Google’s newly launched Cloud WAN with Lumen’s connectivity services.

This integration allows Lumen’s Network-as-a-Service platform — including managed SD-WAN and security features—to operate within Google Cloud regions, modernizing enterprise networking capabilities.

The companies will also enable ultra-fast 400 Gbps direct fiber links between Google Cloud data centers and customer sites.

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This move will broaden Google Cloud access across more than 50,000 Lumen-connected locations, significantly increasing network reach and speed.

Further, Lumen plans to link its encrypted, high-security network infrastructure to Google Distributed Cloud’s air-gapped deployments.

This initiative aims to protect sensitive data for clients in heavily regulated sectors like finance, government, and critical infrastructure.

“Networks are the foundation of the AI revolution,” said Dave Ward, Lumen’s chief technology and product officer.

He added that the fusion of Lumen’s secure network with Google’s global infrastructure gives businesses the tools to manage data faster, more securely, and with greater flexibility for AI and cloud applications.

According to Benzinga Pro, LUMN stock has gained over 121% in the past year.

Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Invesco S&P SmallCap Utilities & Communication Services ETF .

LUMN Price Action: Lumen Technologies ( LUMN ) shares are trading higher by 4.48% to $3.39 at publication Wednesday.

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