Multi-layer survivable routing mechanism in GMPLS based optical networks

The structure of IP/MPLS over optical networks has become the trend for new generation backbone transport networks since the technology of general multi-protocol label switching (GMPLS) can realize the seamless converage between IP and optical networks. At the same time, due to the high-speed transmission rate of each wavelength in optical networks, survivability is a very important issue and has been studied all through these years. Therefore, in new generation GMPLS based networks, it is very necessary to investigate the multi-layer survivable algorithms. In this paper, we comprehensively review the existing survivable algorithms in multi-layer networks and analyze the shortages of current researches. Based on previous studies, we prospect challenges and propose new solutions of designing efficient survivable algorithms to well guide the future work of researchers in multi-layer networks.