Abstract
Due to the enormous proliferation of internet traffic, including video on demand and transfer of datarich documents, the use of optical networking is mandatory, resulting with high capacity and speed as needed. In this chapter we review optical networking, its current issues, trends, and ways to efficiently design and manage a wide range of optical networks. We address the following: an overview of optical networking (including its current capabilities, virtual versus physical topology, optical node components), placement of “special equipment” nodes and components, and design of network topology. Efficient management and utilization of geographically different networks (such as wide area networks, metro networks, and access networks) present different optimization problems dealing with the placement of special optical equipment. We summarize current algorithmic approaches and suggest possibilities for further research.