Abstract

The capacity of optical transport networks has grown rapidly over the last few years, mostly due to the adoption of Dense Wave Division Multiplexing (DWDM) to increase the capacity of fiber networks. This growth in capacity has created an issue in the management of optical networks. Large networks have become difficult to manage using Element Management System (EMS) architectures that are mostly proprietary in nature and not designed to scale well with network growth. In addition, IP network growth demands signifi-cant reductions in the time taken to provision optical circuits, placing further pressure on optical network management schemes.

© 2002 Optical Society of America