Analysis of the next generation green optical access networks

This article provides a critical review on the feasibility of green next generation optical access network (NG-OAN), where a range of technologies are involved. It discusses some relevant representatives in the area where in specific access technologies based on Wavelength Division Multiplexing-Passive Optical Networks (WDM-PON) have been identified as the key promising green solutions. The impacts of other networking functionalities e.g. traffic aggregation and protection on the NG-OAN are also included in the review. With this, the issues, challenges and research vision are outlined that highlight the ongoing and future directions of green NG-OAN.