Improved algorithm for low cost lightpath assignment in mixed line rates WDM networks

In this paper a new heuristic algorithm for cost-effective lightpath assignment in mixed line rates WDM networks based on a light trail architecture is proposed. The algorithm improves the performance of a previous heuristic by exploiting the volume discount provided by high-rate lightpaths and the ability of longer paths to groom future traffic demands. Results show that the proposed algorithm is able to achieve a network cost as low as 52% of the cost of the previous proposal.