Strategies for the interconnection of heterogeneous optical networks

Optical networks are facing increased levels of heterogeneity, from types of services to the range of technologies involved. In this paper, we focus on the inter-domain heterogeneity scenario and consider the case of a set of interconnected network domains, each one using its own optical networking technology (wavelength-routing, optical burst-switching or wavelength-routed optical burst switching). We discuss different approaches to deal with such heterogeneity in order to provide end-to-end connections traversing different domains, including the use of hierarchical PCE (Path Computation Element) mechanisms and interfacing strategies between optical burst switching and wavelength routing-based networks.