(OFC 2020) Open Whitebox Architecture for Smart Integration of Optical Networking and Data Center Technology [invited]

In this paper, we identify challenges in developing future optical network infrastructure for new services based on technologies such as 5G, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence, and we suggest approaches to handling these challenges that include a business model, architecture, and diversity. Through activities in multiservice agreement and de facto standard organizations, we have shown how the hardware abstraction layer interfaces of optical transceivers are implemented for multivendor and heterogeneous environments, coherent digital signal processor interoperability, and optical transport whiteboxes. We have driven the effort to define the transponder abstraction interface with partners. The feasibility of such implementation was verified through demonstrations and trials. In addition, we are constructing an open-transport platform by combining existing open-source software and implementing software components that automate and enhance operations. An open architecture maintains a healthy ecosystem for industry and allows for a flexible, operator-driven network.