Authors:
T. Ndousse, L. Hester and S. Kumar

This paper addresses the optimization and performability of survivability strategies used in the next generation of high-capacity optical transport networks based on Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) technology. The framework of survivability presented is based on the self-healing mechanism used in SONET/SDH. The key issue addressed is how to determine the number of redundant components and wavelength units necessary to achieve a guaranteed level of survivability. A multi-modal failure probability model is developed and used in the reliability model of optical components. The multi- modal reliability analysis is used in conjunction with a reliability optimization technique to determine the optimum number of redundant components and wavelengths necessary in a SONET/WDM network to achive a given degree of survivability.