Lumen Technologies (NYSE: LUMN) has expanded access to its Multi-Cloud Gateway service, allowing enterprises to connect more than 10 million U.S. business locations to private cloud networking beyond the company's existing fiber footprint.

The expansion enables qualified third-party connected locations to use the same cloud networking environment as Lumen on-net sites. Enterprises can manage the service through the Lumen Connect portal and APIs, applying routing policies, segmentation controls, and digital management tools across a broader range of locations.

"AI and multi-cloud strategies work best if the network can reach every part of the business," said Jim Fowler, chief technology and product officer at Lumen. "By extending Multi-Cloud Gateway beyond our fiber footprint, we're making it easier for enterprises to connect more locations to a programmable, cloud-ready network without redesigning their architecture."

Peter Chahal, research director at IDC, noted in the press release that the challenge for enterprises scaling across multiple clouds "is no longer simply connecting cloud environments," but rather "extending the same secure, high-performance networking experience to every location where business happens."

The expanded service is available through Ethernet Fabric Connect in the Lumen Connect portal and via API. Customers can confirm availability and eligibility through their Lumen account team or the Lumen Connect platform.