Solving for Scalability From Multi-Band to Multi-Rail Core Networks

The internet heavily relies on optical networks to carry an increasingly growing amount of traffic. This paper analyzes and explores different ways and architectures to efficiently scale terrestrial core optical networks. Discussed and reviewed are several means to increase network capacity and their potential to address the anticipated growth. Finally, a full network simulation allows to gauge the merit of the proposed architectures which allow for a seamless transition between wavelength switched and band or fiber switched core networks while gradually benefiting from the increased cost efficiency of the latter.