In the field of networking research for high-speed optical networks, Laboratory for Optical Networking and Systems (LONS) is actively engaged in both theoretical and practical research projects. Our research concentrates on several facets of optical networks, such as core and access networks, with the goal of developing the next-generation of high-speed networks through the application of mathematical modelling and algorithmic considerations. Our research facility’s infrastructure includes a variety of high-performance servers, OpenFlow switches, and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) controllers. LONS has been funded by several governmental national and international funding agencies, including Science and Engineering Research Board, Department of Science & Technology, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, DST/International Cooperation Division, DST/Inspire Faculty, etc. The following is a list of the primary research areas that LONS focuses on.

Resource allocation:

Network operators face difficulties in managing their networks’ infrastructure and resources due to constraints such as cost, service level agreement, and scarcity of available resources. This is especially true for optical networks. Our research focuses on network planning and design problems in order to make better use of resources. We work on elastic optical networks, where resources can be used in flexible ways. The spectrally-spatially elastic optical network is an active area of research right now. Space-division multiplexing has been added to elastic optical networks to get around the physical barrier and increase the amount of data that can be transmitted. We study resource allocation in spectrally-spatially elastic optical networks to make better use of resources and deal with crosstalk between cores and modes. We explore techniques for allocating resources using optimization, algorithm, and machine learning approaches.

Network virtualization:

The process of creating virtual network slices and abstracting the underlying network infrastructure typically requires the utilization of software-defined networking (SDN) and network functions virtualization (NFV) technologies in optical networks. These virtual slices are able to be customized for a variety of applications and services, which enables network operators to optimize the performance of the network as well as the utilization of its resources in accordance with particular requirements. Our research is centered on the development of effective algorithms and mathematical models for the purpose of enhancing the performance of networks. Network virtualization in optical networks is a key enabler for the delivery of next-generation services and applications, which require high bandwidth and low-latency connectivity. These services and applications are important because they are expected to be more complex.

Reliability issues:

Recovery from optical network failures is becoming an increasingly important topic in light of the enormous amounts of information carried by optical networks. The network needs to be able to survive large-scale disasters like tsunamis, hurricanes, and floods by being able to dynamically change its routes and adapt to changes in the amount of traffic that is needed. It is necessary to determine the distribution of network and computation resources in order to ensure that services can be continuously provided even in the face of challenges such as these. The work that our research group does on this subject makes use of mathematical optimisation modeling, the development of algorithm design, and demonstration experiments.