Patch panels in the sky: a case for free-space optics in data centers

We explore the vision of an all-wireless inter-rack datacenter fabric. Such a fabric, if realized, can offer operator the ability to dynamically reconfigure the network topology to adapt to future traffic demands while eliminating concerns related to cabling complexity. A key enabler for our vision is the use of free space optical (FSO) technology which, in contrast to traditional wireless/RF technologies, has lower interference footprint, can support longer range, and offers higher bandwidths. While FSO is an enabler, there are several significant practical challenges that need to be addressed before this vision turns into reality. We demonstrate the early promise of addressing these challenges and the potential benefits that this offers in comparison to state-of-the-art datacenter architectures.