Performance Analysis of Automatic Hidden Ligthpaths in Multi-Layer Networks

Abstract

The problem of resource provisioning in multi-layer networks is an important issue. We discuss and analyze resource provisioning in terms of the visibility of optical resources for the virtual layer in a network. In this context, we propose the diversification of the optical spectrum in such a way that some resources are hidden for the virtual layer and used when needed. We introduce and investigate automatic hidden lightpaths to improve resource utilization in multi-layer networks. Our solution uses a software-defined networking concept to automatically set up and release hidden lightpaths, which are not visible at the network layer. We evaluate and analyze two main approaches to resource provisioning in terms of the blocking probability. Future research should focus on resource diversification and the usage of the hidden elastic optical spectrum in modern networks as a promising solution.