What is Layer 0 in the OSI Layers ?

What is Layer 0 in the OSI layers ? Isn’t OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) seven layers? 

To have a great understanding of SP Networks, you can check my new published “Service Provider Networks Design and Perspective” Book. 

Yes it is. In the standard, seven layers have been defined. Just let’s remember the seven layers of OSI.

Layer 7: The application layer.
Layer 6: The presentation layer.
Layer 5: The session layer.
Layer 4: The transport layer.
Layer 3: The network layer.
Layer 2: The data-link layer.
Layer 1: The physical layer.

If you are working in the transport networking, you already know that Layer 0 is the photonics layer, more specifically, DWDM is considered as the Layer 0 of the OSI layers.

DWDM – Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing is an Optical Transmission technology.

• DWDM allows you to transmit multiple wavelengths on a single fiber, as the name suggests it utilizes wave division multiplexing.

• DWDM can be deployed in ultra-long haul, long-haul, regional, and metro area’s.

• DWDM also uses amplification to reach long distances and can be an expensive technology to deploy.

• On the other hand CWDM which is a metro technology multiplexing a maximum of 8 wavelengths per fiber and does not require amplification i.e. much cheaper than DWDM

• WDM is used to transport SDH/Ethernet/IP between regions or cities or to aggregate traffic where large bandwidth is required

DWDM as Layer 0 

Above picture shows DWDM as Layer 0, SONET/SDH as Layer 1.

The reason, SONET/SDH can be a client of DWDM but not vice versa. Which mean, SONET/SDH signals can be carried over DWDM but DWDM cannot be carried over SONET/SDH or any other transport mechanism. It is photonic layer.I explain DWDM , OSI Layers and of course much more topics in my Service Provider Design Workshop. You can check the outline and register for the upcoming SP Design Workshop from here.