Cross-Layer Optimisation of Network Resource Virtualization in IP over O-OFDM Networks

Optical Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (O-OFDM) is a promising transport technology for virtualization and bandwidth sharing over high capacity optical fibres. In this paper, we propose an IP over O-OFDM optical network architecture utilizing network virtualization across IP and optical layers. A design goal of this architecture is to provide
the dynamicity and flexibility in addition to the high capacity required to support multi-rate traffic with various quality of service requirements. In this architecture, optimised allocation of optical resources to virtual optical networks that accommodate the traffic of IP networks is considered. O-OFDM is utilized to allocate a set of low rate contiguous subcarriers to each traffic connection represented by a virtual optical link. In addition, we study virtualization of IP network resources (i.e. routers and bandwidth capacities of links) in order to compose several customized virtual IP networks. Furthermore, coordination between IP and optical network virtualization mechanisms is investigated in order to achieve the required optimisation of network resource virtualization across the different domains. For this purpose, a novel replanning approach is proposed and is aimed to adapt the resources allocated for virtual optical networks based on the requirements of IP layer.