AI/ML for cybersecurity and robustness in optical networks: Key opportunities and challenges

The rapid evolution of optical networks has introduced new challenges in cybersecurity and network robustness, necessitating innovative solutions to ensure reliable and secure communication. This paper explores the opportunities and challenges of applying Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) techniques to enhance the security and resilience of optical networks. We present a comprehensive survey of current AI/ML applications in optical networks, focusing on anomaly detection, threat mitigation, and adaptive resource management. By highlighting current limitations and proposing future research directions, this paper aims to provide a roadmap for enhancing AI/ML-driven methods to build secure, robust, and efficient optical networks.