Standard-based approach to programmable hybrid networks

Programmable hybrid networks are considered in this article as a challenge to deploy flexible solutions for next-generation networks. A modular programmable router architecture, which takes advantage of emerging standards, is proposed to support dynamic management and configuration capabilities of network resources and services. The new node design concepts allow vendor-independent development of hybrid router functionalities and possible investigation of new standard interfaces. Validation of the proposed approach is proven in an open source software router context, emulating a hybrid circuit/packet service based on optical switching technology. The software emulator obtained allows programmable hybrid router functionalities to be tested at different levels of abstraction and with different modeling granularities, and is able to represent both logical and physical aspects.