New packet switching concept for high-capacity networks

This paper describes a new approach for implementing optical switching in a MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) domain where optical packet switching is deployed by using deflection routing. By implementing wavelength multiplexing along with deflection routing, the need for optical buffers is reduced considerably, thereby alleviating of the problems associated with optical packet switching. Using MPLS traffic engineering extensions that naturally facilitate the use of alternative routes furthermore eases the control of deflection routing. The following assumes knowledge of MPLS terminology and functionality.