Abstract: A method and systems for implementing an access control algorithm across an optical network are described. The network includes a plurality of switch port devices, each including a local control plane processor. The local control plane processors receive control information related to the plurality of switch port devices; determine destination devices to which each of the plurality of switch port devices can transmit data and availability to receive incoming bursts at the switch port devices; and determine a time during the transmission period when the data is to be transmitted to at least one destination. Optionally, a central control plane processor receives control information from the local control plane processors and determines a time during a transmission period when at least a portion of the data is to be transmitted from at least one of the switch port devices to a destination, thereby regulating traffic over the optical network.

Abstract: Methods and systems for using a wavelength as an address in an optical network are disclosed. In particular, methods for selecting a wavelength for a particular node in an optical network, resolving a wavelength for a destination node in an optical network from a network address, and receiving and transmitting data packets at particular wavelengths are disclosed. A resulting system implementing such methods may significantly reduce space, weight and power measurements while transferring data at high rates for a data network.