Optical-label based packet, burst, and circuit switching networks

This tutorial overviews optical-label switching technologies in light of packet, burst, and circuit switched networking applications. In particular, we will discuss architecture, protocol, and systems integration issues, and further provide possible network evolution scenarios from today’s circuit-oriented optical networks to tomorrow’s agile networks supporting various applications. Optical-label switching networks simultaneously support various applications optimized for circuit, burst, or packet switched networks on multiple optical channels. Systems applications of optical-label swapping, and optical-label switching routers have shown promising results including variable-length packet switching with 600 psec switching speed, 11-hop cascaded packet switching, 477 km field trials, and video transmission using optical-label switching core routers. Future interoperable networking with MPLS and legacy networks with GMPLS signaling are also discussed.