Efficient multi‐layer traffic grooming in an IP/MPLS‐over‐optical network

Traffic grooming in meshed optical networks is an important research topic due to the vast difference between the bandwidth requirements of IP/MPLS traffic demands and the capacity of a wavelength. In this paper, we present, evaluate and compare several traffic grooming strategies for a multi‐layer IP/MPLS‐over‐meshed optical network, which take into account the unidirectional nature of IP. Applying a proper multi‐layer grooming algorithm also implicates designing a cost‐efficient IP/MPLS topology suited for the offered traffic. This study shows that a very promising traffic grooming strategy is the one that deploys a sophisticated capacity installation algorithm in combination with the idea of charging the IP/MPLS layer for the capacity it consumes in the optical layer. Such an iterative, charging‐based approach allows significant savings in the overall network design cost compared to a more simple approach. It also allows gradually installing extra line‐systems in the optical network as traffic increases. Copyright © 2005 AEIT.