Aware optical networks: Leaving the lab

Awareness of optical network performance and its accurate prediction enable squeezing of margins allocated for stable operation. We discuss the potential of online performance assessment by leveraging bandwidth-variable transponders in flexible optical networks, and quantify its benefit by simulating the total capacity of typical long-haul networks. An experimental analysis in a system lab and a field trial demonstrate the viability and remarkable accuracy of the presented technologies in a live network. Finally, we analyze the impact of disaggregated networks on performance awareness.