An overview of the development and prospects of the optical fiber communications is described. At first

the progress of telecommunications in general and the early inver-tion of optical communication are briefly mentioned. Then

the rapid development of optical fiber communications during the past 10 years

its advantageous features

as wells as the applications and prospects are described in greater detail. It is hoped that the paper will help the readers to have a complete view on the new optical fiber communication technology and its important role in the field of modern telecommunications.