The concept of software-defined networking has taken the telecom/IT industry by storm. And while SDN development originated largely with data centers in mind, the same idea has also struck a chord with the optical networking sector. Indeed, optical vendors that have been at the forefront of the packet-optical networking segment are already looking at ways to leverage SDN to take packet-optical to all-new levels of optimization and performance.
As our lead story indicates, operators stand to gain major benefits from optical SDN, but they should also be aware of the challenges involved – from overhauling operations to integration with entrenched OSS/BSS systems.
Two key characteristics of SDN that cannot be overemphasized are openness – which serves as the heart of SDN’s value proposition – and automation, which is the key to unlocking it. Ciena’s Chris Janz explains why the shift from traditional network management toward automated operations is the most significant breakthrough for SDN.
And finally, we drill down on Ciena’s vision of an optical SDN architecture, and the initial steps it is taking – along with its work with the ONF and MEF – to shape the future of “multi-layer, carrier-scale SDN”.
Download this e-Guide to find out more.