Dynamic Reconfiguration in Broadcast WDM Networks

Abstract

In this research we study the problems associated with dynamic reconfiguration of broadcast WDM networks.Adaptability to the changing traffic conditions is viewed as one of the key features of multiwavelength optical networks, and this is the first comprehensive in-depth study of this problem area.Our contribution consists of identifying the three main questions related to network reconfiguration: a) how to balance the load across multiple wavelengths; b) deciding when it is best to reconfigure the network and c) performing the actual reconfiguration in an efficient manner, that minimizes cell losses.We provide novel solutions to each of these problems.Our solutions consist of an algorithm we call GLPT, which balances the cell load across wavelengths, an optimal reconfiguration policy, derived from representing the problem as a Markovian Decision Process, and a class of retuning strategies that allow us to reconfigure the system.In addition, we perform a simulated comparison of static and dynamically reconfigurable networks in order to verify the validity of our approach.The simulation also provides us with valuable insights into the behavior of an adaptable optical network.