It is now more evident that it is possible to tap the fiber optic cable and extract the data transmitted over it. Encryption of Layer-1, the optical layer, answers the data security needs of DWDM and OTN links, while adhering to requirements and regulations that have been put into place to maintain confidentiality, data integrity, and authentication. Implementing encryption at Layer-1 of the signal has several advantages: multiple client services are supported, deployment is relatively simple, it is transparent to the traffic at full bandwidth without degradation to the link and no omissions, and it supports low latency applications. The optical layer can also detect tapping attempts as power levels of the DWDM channels are constantly monitored and alerts are raised if there is any change.
