Optical multi-service core and access networks [Series Editorial]

The global optical communications industry has continued to show progress in all segments from access to core networks through 2014. The two most notable trends of 2013 have been expanding in 2014: 1) the emergence of the packet optical transport system (P-OTS) concept with the service provider goal to build a common network infrastructure by integrating Ethernet, IP/multiprotocol label switching (MPLS), and dense wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM); 2) intensifying focus and attention on network functions virtualization (NFV) and software-defined networking (SDN) to provide service providers with the tools for more effective operation and management of optical communications networks. Some global service providers have been establishing and announcing their target timeframes for transitioning to all-IP network operations, while major industry standards organizations and fora have been working to publish their guidelines and frameworks for NFV and SDN. These important trends are expected to gain additional momentum through the rest of 2014 as the industry continues to develop to meet the growing global communications needs.