Securing all-optical networks

All-optical networks (AONs) are a relatively new technology for high data-rate communications. They contain only optical components and are intrinsically different from optical networks currently being used. More specifically, AONs provide transparent features that allow routing and data switching without necessitating the interpretation or regression of signals within the network. Consequently, AON components and architectures bring forth a set of new challenges in network security. The paper presents an overview of security issues in AONs and proposes the design criteria for network management in AONs. In addition, there is a discussion concerning the implementation of such a system within the authors' research group.