ADVA showcases first SDN-Automated Optical Transmission network

ADVA Optical Networking has announced that it has successfully demonstrated a virtualized optical transmission network using Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and OpenFlow-based control  in partnership with IBM and Marist College.

In the SDN demonstration, three geographically diverse data centers with switching, server and storage technology from IBM are interconnected by a fully reconfigurable and OpenFlow-enabled optical network based upon the ADVA FSP 3000.

In addition to load balancing across data centers, dynamic functions such as bandwidth calendaring, follow-the-sun" applications and new more cost effective disaster recovery mechanisms become possible as well. I can now push a button and instantly accomplish what used to take dozens of people across multiple departments weeks to months to do. The possibilities are profound. said Todd Bundy, Business Development Director, ADVA Optical Networking 

This demonstration reveals how resources can be cost-effectively pooled among data centers by automating wavelength provisioning, commissioning and assignment, while equipping the network to dynamically respond to on the fly changes in application workload and traffic patterns,commented Casimer DeCusatis, Distinguished Engineer, IBM.

Cloud computing and data center virtualization are creating a more volatile environment than ever before.