Spider Web Topology-based reliable and fault-protected hybrid single-mode fiber/free-space optics optical access network

The proposed Spider Web Topology (SWT)-based architecture combines the benefits of three topologies: bus, star, and ring. The SWT can result in a highly reliable and fault-protected optical access network. The proposed architecture can transmit data over either free-space optics (FSO) or single-mode fiber (SMF) or both links simultaneously to provide a 2X reliable solution for upcoming faults. The simultaneous use of SMF and FSO paths can handle any fault in either path. With appropriate incorporation of the optical switches and proposed SWT, the architecture can protect the network against multiple faults in the transmission link. The performance of the architecture equipped with the proposed SWT is analyzed and verified using the simulation results. It can provide a Q-factor of more than 6 for all operating modes, including both fault-free conditions (normal conditions) and scenarios with simultaneous faults at different locations via alternate paths. The architecture can be utilized for high-speed and reliable internet services for geographical areas where laying traditional fibers or maintaining fiber optic links is difficult due to frequent faults.