Economics of a convergent optical backbone transport with NG-OTN

Abstract

In planning the evolution and transformation of optical transport networks, operators are faced with multiple difficult choices in terms of the network design and optimization with emerging technologies and transition strategy to achieve higher flexibility, scalability and resiliency at minimum expenditures. We attempt to answer these critical questions by means of a practical methodology. We demonstrate that a converged transport network architecture with Next-Generation Optical Transport Network (NG-OTN) technologies meets the carrier's requirements at minimum capital investment. We support this network transformation solution with a comprehensive case study of the evolution of an actual service provider's optical backbone network with a realistic service mix, traffic growth and cost models. The network transformation introduces the convergence of multiple services and transport layers using NG-OTN technologies, and performs a network design optimization to meet the scalability, flexibility and resiliency requirements while minimizing the investment in infrastructure and network operations.