GMPLS-based passive optical network

The significance of Generalized Multi-protocol Label Switching (GMPLS) has been proven by its significant adoption in ASON. In recent years GMPLS has become the most global solution to provide intelligent optical resource configuration through not only devices that perform packet switching, but also devices that perform switching in the time, wavelength, and space domain. This new technology can be used to support services for applications that requiring high QoS performances in any network which using the Internet Protocol (IP), including the Passive Optical Network (PON). In this paper, we will propose a new PON technology that uses GMPLS as layer2 protocol. The focus of this paper is mainly on the issues and key characters that will encounter in the combination of GMPLS technology and PON technology. Compared to other PON technologies, such as APON and EPON, GMPLS-based PON (GMPLS PON) can provide more powerful and efficient service in access network, and it can also provide better QoS support to the video and audio applications. The most significant is GMPLS PON can also provide common control and data and administrative planes between the backbone network and the access network, so it will be more convenient and efficient to operate and manage.