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The role of management systems in optical/packet convergence

Optical/packet convergence is the process that merges optical transport infrastructure and data networking capabilities. In this paper, we discuss the process, its drivers, and the impact of this convergence on network management systems and overall network operations. We identify the business problem in terms of the challenges to the evolution of network operations. Specifically, we address next-generation transport networks, which have adapted well to the key requirements of packet networking through techniques such as Virtual Concatenation, Generic Framing Procedure, Integrated Ethernet switching, and the Generalized Multiprotocol Label Switching (GMPLS) control plane. We also address the wider issue of operations support consolidation across different data networks including integration utilizing a Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) core. We consider the different customer environments for which convergence will need operations support system (OSS) solutions and discuss various options that can lead to a viable operations plan. We close the paper with our preliminary recommendations for how operational convergence can be achieved for different network operations processes.