Management vs. control plane approaches for the integration of IP and WDM layers - a synergy paradigm

This paper examines the different approaches for the provisioning of Internet services over the optical layer. Most of the research in the area is focused in the control plane by extending the distributed Internet network control approach to the optical layer using signalling mechanisms either in an overlay model or a peer model. In addition, this paper proposes a novel paradigm for providing Internet services over the optical transport network, in which the management plane takes the leading role and the control plane is used for secondary supporting actions. The paradigm extends the telecom-style network management approach to the IP layer through the use of MPLS, which may be treated as a connection-oriented technology. The appropriate synergy and integration of the MPLS and WDM layers is performed with management functions capable of performing integrated provisioning of label switched paths over optical channels (lambdas), as well as integrated multi-layer fault and performance management. This approach is a midterm solution until the control mechanisms become technically and market-wise mature and gradually dominate the IP over optical area pushing the management plane to a secondary role, mostly for visualising/monitoring the control plane. The proposed management solution has been adopted and implemented by WINMAN, an ongoing European research and development project, whose aim is to offer an integrated network management solution for the provisioning of end-to-end IP connectivity services derived from service level agreements (SLAs).