Policy approach to managing WDM networks

Abstract

This paper presents a policy-based management framework for GMPLS-enabled optical networks. First, the ASON (Automatic Switched Optical Networks) and GMPLS (Generalized Multi-Protocol Label Switching) architecture are presented. We will explain how the policy plane relates to the control and management plane, and the role it plays in the dynamic configuration of GMPLS optical paths. We will present a framwork based on an admission control protocol COPS) Common Open Policy Service) defined by the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force) and on an Information Model based on the CIM (Common Information Model) model defined by DMTF (Distributed Management Task Force). This framework allows interworking between the policy and control plane, and provides a comprehensive policy provisioning setup for optical networks. An information model extended from CIM for managing dynamically configured optical networks is presented.