The future of optical networks

The transport network paradigm is moving toward NGN (next generations networks) which aims at IP convergence, while architectures and technologies are diversifying. Video technologies including ultra-high-definition TV (more than 33 M pixels) continue to advance and future communication networks will become video-centric. The inefficiencies of current IP technologies, in particular the energy consumption and throughput limitations of IP routers, will become pressing problems. Harnessing the full power of light will resolve these problems and spur the creation of future video-centric networks. Extension of optical layer technologies and coordination with new transport protocols will be critical, and are discussed in detail.