A flexible and modular approach towards Zero Touch Optical Networks

Modern networks are facing an imminent paradigm shift from automated to autonomous networks. This new frontier is called "Zero-Touch Networking" and will allow networks to control and optimise themselves without the need for human intervention. Optical networks, which are already an integral part of the telecommunications infrastructure, will be embraced by this new paradigm. This thesis presents a series of research activities related to automation in optical networks. The aim is to propose enhancements that can deliver immediate benefits while remaining consistent with the principles of ZTN. This will enable a smoother and more transparent transition from current to next generation optical networks.