Advances in optical communications networks [Series Editorial

Abstract

The global telecommunications industry has been focusing on network functions virtualization (NFV) and software-defined networking (SDN) to provide service providers with the tools for more effective operation and management of communications networks. These important trends are expected to gain additional momentum in 2016. Recent developments in the Internet of Things and cloud computing promise to make programmable network management and control an imperative. In 2015, we witnessed the evolution of more efficient optical transport capabilities delivered by the optical components and systems suppliers as high-speed optical and data center networks expanded globally. Underlying this evolution has been the ever accelerating development of high-speed interconnects and optical transceivers for data center networks. We expect to see continued migration to all-optical networks in 2016 and beyond.