From passive light to smart light: The role of AI in the next generation of optical networks

Title : From passive light to smart light: The role of AI in the next generation of optical networks

Abstract:

The evolution of optical networks from passive light transmission to intelligent, adaptive systems signifies a paradigm shift in telecommunications. This talk investigates the importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in developing future-generation optical networks, which are expected to meet the never-ending demand for data and the need for resilient, high-capacity communication infrastructure. Unlike traditional passive light systems that operate with fixed parameters, AI-driven smart optical networks empower real-time data analytics, machine learning, and predictive algorithms to optimize network performance, enhance performance, and enable autonomous operations. Key innovations discussed include AI-powered dynamic bandwidth allocation, intelligent routing, and energy-efficient management, all of which enable scalable and sustainable network architectures. Through case studies and a review of recent advancements, this presentation will highlight how AI integrates with optical networks to create adaptive, self-optimizing systems capable of supporting future technologies like 6G, the Internet of Things (IoT), and edge computing.

Biography:

Prof. Mohamed Essam holds a PhD in Context awareness in mobile environments from Ottawa University, Canada. This research was a cornerstone in AI technologies, as it studied the effect of users' context in their environment and how the environment can learn and adapt to user preferences. Since then, Prof. Mohamed Essam has conducted many research projects on mobile, wireless, and optical networks and how to make them smarter and more adaptable. He has also worked on many research projects that tackle machine learning and cognitive approaches to improving networks and the environment. He is currently Dean of Admission and Registration which gave him more insight on how to use AI for students' recruitment and retention as well as how to use AI for sustainable development of campus life.