The article discusses the advancements and potential of Space Division Multiplexing (SDM) in optical fiber communications. SDM, which involves multiplexing multiple spatial modes through a single fiber, has been explored for decades but has only recently gained significant attention due to technological advancements and the need for increased network capacity. The authors highlight the challenges and opportunities in SDM, including the management of cross-talk between modes, the development of advanced modulation formats, and the integration of SDM with existing fiber infrastructure. Recent demonstrations of SDM systems using multicore fibers (MCF) and few-mode fibers (FMF) have shown impressive progress in terms of capacity, reach, and spectral efficiency. The article also discusses the potential benefits of combining MCF and FMF concepts to further enhance capacity and the development of SDM networking and switching strategies. Overall, the authors conclude that while significant progress has been made, further research is needed to achieve reliable and cost-effective SDM systems.The article discusses the advancements and potential of Space Division Multiplexing (SDM) in optical fiber communications. SDM, which involves multiplexing multiple spatial modes through a single fiber, has been explored for decades but has only recently gained significant attention due to technological advancements and the need for increased network capacity. The authors highlight the challenges and opportunities in SDM, including the management of cross-talk between modes, the development of advanced modulation formats, and the integration of SDM with existing fiber infrastructure. Recent demonstrations of SDM systems using multicore fibers (MCF) and few-mode fibers (FMF) have shown impressive progress in terms of capacity, reach, and spectral efficiency. The article also discusses the potential benefits of combining MCF and FMF concepts to further enhance capacity and the development of SDM networking and switching strategies. Overall, the authors conclude that while significant progress has been made, further research is needed to achieve reliable and cost-effective SDM systems.