Distributed processor modules and persistent storage in an optical network

Abstract

In an optical network having a plurality of nodes, administrative information for one node is persistently stored at another node in the network. The network includes a first node having persistent storage memory for storing administrative information from a second node. The nodes communicate the administrative information over an optical signaling channel that travels on a path including one or more optical transmission media between the nodes. Also described is an optical network having a plurality of nodes in which an administrative node processor module at a first node performs administrative control functions for a second node. Also described is a signaling channel module in each node that controls the communication or transfer of administrative information over the optical signaling channel.