Adaptive and state-dependent online resource allocation in dynamic optical networks

In this paper we tackle the problem of online resource allocation in dynamic flex-grid optical networks. To meet the stringent connection setup times envisioned for bandwidth-on-demand services in the optical layer, we propose adaptive and state-dependent algorithms for connection admission control, online routing and spectrum assignment, and as needed also grade of service control. We also describe how an existing three-way handshake protocol can be used to implement the algorithms. By modeling the resource allocation problem as a Markov decision process, the algorithms can be tuned to optimize an objective arbitrarily defined by the network operator (e.g., maximization of carried traffic or economic revenue). Simulation results show that the proposed approach significantly improves the performance of dynamic optical networks.