10 Best Performing Data Center Stocks So Far in 2026

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6. Ciena Corporation (NYSE:CIEN)

On May 20, 2026, Ciena Corporation (NYSE:CIEN) highlighted its role in the launch of Cirion Technologies’ new Network-as-a-Service, or NaaS, platform across Latin America. The offering is designed to support enterprise connectivity across data centers, hybrid cloud environments, and AI infrastructure through automated, programmable networking. Ciena said the deployment combines its optical networking platforms, routing and switching products, and automation software with Cirion’s regional fiber and carrier-neutral data center infrastructure spanning more than 105,000 kilometers. The initial rollout focuses on automated data center connectivity, allowing enterprise customers to order, configure, and activate high-capacity network services through a self-service portal with near real-time provisioning.

Fernando Capella, Regional Director for CALA South at Ciena, said the company’s optical technology, routing and switching products, and automation software are helping transform Cirion’s infrastructure into a programmable network platform capable of scaling similarly to cloud services. He added that automation is becoming increasingly important as networks evolve to support growing demand tied to cloud connectivity, AI workloads, and real-time enterprise operations.

On May 18, 2026, Citi analyst Atif Malik raised the firm’s price target on Ciena Corporation (NYSE:CIEN) to $658 from $345 and maintained a Buy rating on the shares ahead of the company’s fiscal second-quarter report scheduled for June 4. Citi said its expectations for Ciena’s fiscal 2027 and 2028 growth have increased materially due to rising demand for optical connectivity. The firm also cited improving profitability and stronger long-term sales growth expectations for the target increase.

Ciena Corporation (NYSE:CIEN) provides networking hardware, software, and services to telecommunications and cloud infrastructure operators globally.

While we acknowledge the potential of CIEN to grow, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than CIEN and that has 100x upside potential, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.

Click to continue reading and see the 5 Best Performing Data Center Stocks So Far in 2026.

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