Notes on Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) with MikroTik Router

Introduction to WDM

• Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM): A technology that allows transmission of multiple wavelengths (Î") or colors through the same medium.
• Purpose: Increases throughput capacity of existing bandwidth.

Overview of WDM Devices

• Example Device: 4 Channel CWDM (Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing).
• Connection Requirements:
  • Uses only 2 cores for transmission between WDM devices.
  • Example: If using 4 channels, total cores needed = 2 (cores per port) * 4 (ports) = 8 cores for client devices.
• Distance Support: Current devices support up to 20KM with only 2 cores.*

Advantages of WDM Technology

• Increased Bandwidth Capacity:
  • Standard transmission from Router1 to Router2 uses one cable.
  • With WDM, can utilize multiple wavelengths for greater capacity.
  • Example: If SFP port supports 10G dual-core, total capacity can reach up to 40G through a dual-core cable.
• Infrastructure Efficiency:
  • Reduces the number of cables needed for long-distance connections.

Example Topology and Configuration

• Topology Implementation: WDM devices on both sides to increase capacity without utilizing all available ports.
• Bonding Technology: Aggregates multiple interfaces into one virtual interface to increase bandwidth capacity.
• Router Used: MikroTik CCR2216.

Steps for Bonding Configuration

1. Remote Access to Router: Access Router1 (R1) and ensure all interfaces are operational.

2. Bonding Setup:

   • Go to the Interface menu, find the Bonding tab.
   • Add interfaces connected to WDM devices (sfp28-1 and sfp28-2).
   • Select Mode: balance rr.
   • Set Transmit Hash Policy: layer 2 and 3.
   • Apply settings and check running status.

3. IP Address Assignment: Set IP address for bonding interface (e.g., 10.1.1.1/24).

4. Repeat Configuration on Router2 (R2):

   • Ensure interfaces leading to R1 are operational.
   • Configure bonding the same way as R1.

Testing the Configuration

• Ping Test: Confirm connectivity between R2 and R1.
• Traffic Generation Test:
  • Use Traffic Generator to test bandwidth (10G + 10G = 20G).
  • Monitor received bandwidth on R2, expected: close to 20G.

Conclusion

• Ease of Configuration: Bonding configuration is straightforward on MikroTik routers.
• Flexibility: Modes can be adjusted based on network setup (e.g., using 802.3ad if not MikroTik).
• Further Learning: Interested individuals can join Citraweb Fibre Optic Training for more knowledge.

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