Liu, G: Next-Generation Optical Networks

To better exploit the capabilities of optical technologies for high-bandwidth communication, there is a need for next-generation optical networks, which ideally could provide high-speed network access and bandwidth-on-demand at reduced costs. One promising technique to achieve this goal is wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) circuit switching (flow switching), where optical circuits, i.e., light-paths, are dynamically established at a small time scale. Such a fast provisioning of light- paths would use network resources efficiently by adjusting to the rapidly changing needs of end users, thus reduce the cost. In addition, it could serve as a platform for new services and applications. In this work, we focus on two important research problems in next-generation optical networks with flow switching: (1) scalability of network management and control, and (2) resilience/reliability of networks upon faults and attacks. Our main technical approaches are decision theory and probabilistic graphical models.