Cost-optimized resiliency schemes exploiting advanced modulation formats and universal OTN switching

Failure survivability mechanisms are indispensable in transport networks but their support can demand a significant overprovisioning of network resources. Moreover, current opposite trends for data growth and revenue pattern make multi-layer network technology and architecture selection critical. Previously, we demonstrated how one can combine universal Optical Transport Network (OTN) switching and the usage of flexible-rate line interfaces to outperform traditional technologies in minimizing CAPEX in regional and long-haul networks. In the scope of this paper, we examine the effect on the ratio of 100G 4QAM versus 200G 16QAM and thus overall interface card CAPEX when adding control plane based redundancy schemes to the Universal OTN over DWDM transport network.