A multi-level DWDM network using hybrid packet switching and wavelength routing

In this paper, a new approach for constructing a hierarchical DWDM network is proposed. It is comprised of multiple levels by using a special ring topology. On each network level, one or several ring structures, named as cells here, are employed. The multi-level DWDM network keeps the efficiency of packet-switched network and the simplicity of wavelength-routed network. We perform packet switching at some particular physical nodes on the bottom level. On all upper levels, wavelength routing is performed. As a result, the node configuration and network complexity can be simplified apparently. The performance analysis is provided to verify the feasibility of the proposed approach.