On the benefits of label conversion in the GMPLS-based transport networks

One of the most debatable topics in the field of optical networks is wavelength conversion. This is because the usefulness of wavelength conversion depends on (1) the routing and wavelength assignment algorithm used to set up lightpaths and decide both the best locations and number of wavelength conversions, and (2) the convertible crossconnect architecture adopted. With the introduction of the multi-granular switching concept, the debate can be extended to consider the significance of performing label conversion for all optical flows defined in GMPLS. In order to conduct this study, we compare heuristics that have been developed specifically to plan large-scale GMPLS-based transport network with and without the label-conversion capability. The simulation results show that label conversions can be quite beneficial especially when fiber resources are scarce and the network physical connectivity is high.