Next-generation transport solutions for IP backbone networks - benefits of an ASTN-based multi-layer OTN network

摘要

This paper concentrates on solutions for next-generation IP (Internet Protocol) backbone networks. This is a key issue for many network operators since IP will be the dominating network layer technology on which an ever increasing number of applications with growing bandwidth requirements will be based. Without new network solutions, this trend would lead to a strong increase in number and size of IP routers while already today's requirements make it difficult to realise large-scale IP backbone networks in a stable and cost-efficient way. This paper investigates the benefits that an appropriate transport network based on ASTN (Automatic Switched Transport Network) and OTN (Optical Transport Network) technology can bring to future IP backbone networks - providing the stable basis on which next generation IP networks can be built. Network modelling is used to show that in addition to qualitative benefits a transport network based IP backbone solution can lead to a significant reduction of network equipment cost