Magazine: May 2008
Private networks: the DIY solution
Affordable and easy-to-use optical networking gear could usher in a new age of corporate owned and operated data transmission systems, argues Len Bosack.
NGN architectures: let battle commence
There are a number of different architectures competing for next-generation network dominance. Ken Davison examines the pros and cons and, of course, picks his favourite.
Carriers debate merits of packet optical technology
A new class of optical transport equipment combines the functionality of packet systems with WDM, giving carriers more choices than ever before on how to build their next-generation networks. Roy Rubenstein investigates the likely impact.
Intelligent provisioning: top of carriers' wish lists
A disconnect has emerged between the raw capacity supplied by wavelengths and the services delivered over the network. Geoff Bennett examines how the optical transmission network can be made more responsive to the demands of the service network using an approach called bandwidth virtualization.